The Baltimore Ravens have built a reputation on elite defense and tight end production, producing names like Todd Heap, Dennis Pitta, and, most recently, Mark Andrews.
They’ve leaned into tight ends as the offensive engine, and right now it seems the next up is Isaiah Likely.
Likely arrived to Baltimore as a fourth-round pick in 2022, but has showed off skills to be more than just depth.
Last season, Likely started to deliver meaningful snaps. He hauled in a career-high 42 receptions and found the end zone six times.
Andrews remains the top tight end in the locker room, and was able to turn things around in the second half of the 2025 campaign. But that’s exactly what makes Likely such a strategic weapon. You can line both of them up together in multiple formations, and can even motion them around to disguise mismatches. Defensive coordinators loathe that type of deadly combination.
ESPN’s Field Yates said on Friday that it’s “just a matter of time” before Likely becomes one of the most talked-about tight ends in the league, and his breakout comes to fruition. He’s not alone. Analysts around the league are quick to point out Likely’s growth. They see potential, not just as backup or insurance, but as a true co-star. Perhaps more depending on Andrews.
The Ravens’ offense is quickly adapting, turning from a single tight end set into something more fluid with additional motion and unpredictability. Lamar Jackson has found a strong connection with Likely, and that should continue to blossom heading into the 25-year-old’s fourth NFL campaign.
They’re not just slotted as blockers or catchers. They’re all-purpose chess pieces. The question now is how much the Ravens lean on Likely — and how quickly. Last season’s uptick in production was just the beginning. This year, he could finally become a household name.
But it’s not just about offense. Likely also adds value on special teams. He’s a big body who can block on return units and adjust in space. That kind of contribution matters in close games and late-quarter field position battles. A reliable special-teamer with offensive upside? Rare and valuable.
The true test comes when Andrews or another key piece is unavailable. Will Likely be ready to step up? Early reports from OTAs say yes. Coaches describe him as confident without arrogance, dependable without hogging the limelight.
When asked about his role, he pointed out he’s here to help the team and welcomes the opportunity to grow. That kind of attitude fits Baltimore’s locker room.
Cincinnati Bengals fans will remember how Tyler Boyd waited his turn before getting center-stage. Kansas City Chiefs fans know Travis Kelce’s time as a backup flanker before GOAT-era awareness. In Baltimore, Likely may have followed a similar path and now appears ready to lead. The Ravens aren’t rushing him, but they’re also not holding back from rewarding performance. That mindset keeps players honest, hungry, and prepared for the spotlight.
Fans looking for the next breakout star, this is where you should be watching. Likely is next to solidify a cornerstone role in Baltimore’s offense.
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