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Ravens’ secret weapon emerging as breakout threat amid Isaiah Likely’s absence

Originally posted on Ebony Bird | By Connor Burke | Last updated Aug 7, 2025 12:00 PM ET

Sometimes, role players end up being crucial contributors in a team’s season. Players get hurt, starters do not always rise to the occasion, but whatever the case may be, depth is a necessity in the NFL. The Baltimore Ravens are learning that in training camp.

Baltimore’s backup tight end and key playmaker, Isaiah Likely, suffered a minor fracture in his foot during the second week of training camp. While he could be back for the team’s Week 1 matchup with the Buffalo Bills, there is no guarantee. In his absence, one underrated weapon is stepping up his game.

Third-string tight end Charlie Kolar has been pushed into the spotlight with Likely out, and he is making his mark.

Charlie Kolar is a rising star in training camp

Tuesday’s joint practice with the Indianapolis Colts was perhaps the biggest practice of training camp. Players could get a feel for in-game action, and Kolar was the brightest spot for the Ravens’ offense. He made some big plays for an offense that struggled for a lot of the day.

Charlie Kolar has been a ⭐️ today. A couple of nice catch-and-runs, a TD in the red zone and now a tough catch over the middle while being leveled from behind.

Ravens are truly #blessed with their TE room.
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) August 5, 2025

Quarterback Lamar Jackson praised Kolar for the way he has been performing, putting faith in the 2022 fourth-round pick as Baltimore’s offense faces adversity amid the Likely injury. Jackson said:

“Charlie’s getting a great feel for the game. He’s looking like a little Mark [Andrews] and a little Isaiah [Likely] out there in his own way. He’s coming along great.”

The Ravens have a history of developing great tight ends. NFL personnel know they have the top tight end duo in the league, but because of that, Kolar never gets much spotlight. He is often a forgotten threat in the offense, only hauling in 26 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns over three seasons. However, he makes the big plays when called upon.

In 2024, Kolar posted nine catches for 131 yards and one touchdown. Of that, three receptions, 64 yards, and the touchdown came in Week 5 against the Cincinnati Bengals. He earned a 91.4 overall grade for that performance per Pro Football Focus, and it was the second-highest snap count he posted that season (second to the Week 10 matchup versus the Bengals).

We will see if Kolar plays a substantial role in the early season. It all depends on when Likely returns, but Baltimore can take their time with the injured rising star, knowing the offense should be in good hands with Kolar in-house.