The Baltimore Ravens are ramping up for their Week 2 battle with the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, but a recent practice report is already bringing intrigue for Week 3. Dynamic tight end Isaiah Likely has been out since July 29, but he finally returned in limited action on Friday.
According to reports, Likely was going through an individual workout. He took part in blocking reps, ran routes, and worked on special teams with Tight Ends Coach George Godsey. Head Coach John Harbaugh was encouraged by what he saw. Harbaugh said:
“I’m encouraged by the progress. I talked to him today; you saw him during practice out there. He’s in a good place, so I’m encouraged.”
The 25-year-old will not be active for the Browns game, but he should be back come Week 3 versus the Detroit Lions. After dropping 40 points in Buffalo, it is not like Baltimore is desperate for more star power, but with a stretch of games against the Lions and Kansas City Chiefs on the upcoming schedule, they will need the extra juice to keep up with two of the most competitive teams in football.
Likely is a breakout candidate for 2025. Whenever his return comes, he is surely going to be a go-to option for quarterback Lamar Jackson. In 2024, he posted career highs in every department. He caught 42 passes for 477 yards and hauled in six touchdowns. He is in a contract year, but it sounds like he will be taking over as the starting tight end moving forward.
He is still listed as the second tight end on the Ravens’ depth chart, but based on his recent progression, he is on his way to staking his claim as one of the better players at his position in the NFL. Fellow tight end Mark Andrews is also in a contract year, but with him turning 31 years old in 2025, it would be wise for Baltimore to invest in Likely moving forward.
Likely is a crucial cog in Baltimore’s offense. He is a consistent receiving option, catching 42 of his 58 targets last year, but his blocking efforts go a long way, too. His combination of size and athleticism allows him to seamlessly clear lanes for Jackson and Derrick Henry on the ground. An already dangerous offense should stake its claim as the NFL’s best with Likely back in action.
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