Isaiah Likely’s Setback Puts the Spotlight on Tight End Depth

Talk about timing. It wasn’t that long ago that rumors of a potential trade swirled around Mark Andrews, with whispers suggesting Baltimore might favor its younger, cheaper crop of tight ends. But now? Andrews is more valuable and has a shot at redemption to start the 2025 NFL season.

Already a Ravens legend as the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns, Andrews has unfinished business in 2025. Last year’s AFC playoffs left a bitter taste, but if his early training camp performance is any indicator, the perennial Pro Bowler is gearing up for redemption. And now, with Likely temporarily out of the picture, even more responsibility will fall on Andrews to keep the Ravens’ offense humming on all cylinders.

The chemistry between Andrews and Lamar Jackson is undeniable. If history tells us anything, it’s that when No. 8 needs a play, No. 89 is his first call. The Ravens aren’t panicking yet, and why should they? Andrews’ knack for red-zone dominance could very well define the team’s early-season success.

“Any time you lose a guy like Isaiah who’s such a special talent, it forces others to step up,” said Coach John Harbaugh. “We’re lucky to have Mark as our leader out there. The room is still in great hands.”

The Likely Silver Lining

While it’s never fun to watch a young star battle through injury right before a make-or-break season, there’s reason for hope. At 25, Likely’s bounce-back potential is sky-high. Harbaugh called it “not a major type of deal,” and it sounds like the Ravens are doing everything possible to make sure he’s ready when it counts.

For fans, this setback also shines a spotlight on the thing Baltimore prides itself on most: next-man-up consistency. The Ravens’ ability to develop depth at critical positions like tight end is what keeps them in the mix in the hyper-competitive AFC.

Can The Ravens Handle Early Adversity?

Losing a dynamic playmaker like Likely temporarily is a blow, but with an offense loaded with versatility and star power, the Ravens are in a good position to weather the storm early on.

What’s happening under the radar could end up defining the season. Will Mark Andrews continue his march toward historic greatness? Can Charlie Kolar seize his opportunity to break through? And, most importantly, will Isaiah Likely return to make his presence felt down the stretch?

All we know for sure is this team remains one of the most intriguing in the NFL, balancing between “win now” mode and building for sustained success. For Ravens fans, buckle up. Training camp just got more compelling, and Week 1 in Buffalo is already must-watch TV.