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Ravens to Miss Isaiah Likely, Patrick Ricard in Week 1

Originally posted on The Lead | By Stefan Macakanja | Last updated Sep 5, 2025 11:02 PM ET

Week 1 is here, and the Ravens are gearing up for their season opener. But the offense will be down a couple of key pieces.

Tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard have been ruled out, altering Baltimore’s offensive approach for what could be a high-scoring affair in Buffalo.

Isaiah Likely’s Status for Week 1

Likely will miss Week 1 due to a foot injury he suffered in training camp.

Ravens FB Patrick Ricard and TE Isaiah Likely both have been ruled out for Sunday night’s game in Buffalo.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 5, 2025

He’s become a valuable weapon in Baltimore’s offense. He uses his size and speed to create mismatches while having great catching ability. His presence gives Lamar Jackson a reliable targets when defenses key in on Zay Flowers, Derrick Henry, and the Ravens’ top weapons.

Two-tight ends packages give the Ravens flexibility in playcalling and help protect Jackson from pressure while having two dangerous receiving threats. Likely also helps open running lanes in certain sets.

Patrick Ricard’s Status for Week 1

Ricard hasn’t practiced recently as he deals with a lingering calf injury.

Ravens FB Patrick Ricard (calf) and TE Isaiah Likely (foot) have been declared out for Sunday's game in Buffalo. It will be Ricard's first missed game w/injury since late '21 season.
CB Jaire Alexander (knee) has no injury designation. He said earlier that he's ready to go.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) September 5, 2025

The Ravens are one of the few teams that still use a traditional fullback, and Ricard is useful for the run game. His blocking is the reason why many explosive plays happen for the Baltimore Ravens. He is a unique fullback who plays like an extra lineman, and at 311 pounds, he has size to prove it.

Without him, the Ravens’ run game looks different, and his absence might force Todd Monken to adjust the game plan.

Next Man Up

With Likely and Ricard sidelined, depth players will need to step up. They may not have the star power of Jackson or Henry, but their absence could quietly shape how Baltimore attacks Buffalo in Week 1.

This article first appeared on The Lead and was syndicated with permission.

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