As we dive into the NFL offseason, the Baltimore Ravens are in the spotlight with some intriguing decisions ahead. With Jesse Minter stepping in as the new head coach, the Ravens are navigating the post-Harbaugh era with a fresh perspective. One of the pressing issues for Minter and general manager Eric DeCosta is the future of a young offensive talent who’s about to hit free agency.
Enter Isaiah Likely, a 25-year-old tight end who’s catching the eye of many teams. But if quarterback Lamar Jackson has his way, Likely won’t be going anywhere. Jackson made his feelings known on social media, tagging the Ravens with a heartfelt plea to keep Likely in Baltimore.
The Ravens face a potential conundrum, having recently extended veteran tight end Mark Andrews through the 2026 season. However, having two strong tight ends is a strategy that’s worked for many teams, like the Los Angeles Rams, who have found success with multiple tight end sets.
With around $22 million in cap space, the Ravens have room to maneuver. Paying both Likely and Andrews could be feasible, especially given their effective use of dual tight ends in recent years.
But for Likely to earn a significant contract, he’ll need more opportunities on the field. He’s racked up 135 receptions in 63 games, and to justify a substantial deal, those numbers need to rise.
New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, coming from the Chicago Bears, has experience with tight ends, but his previous team’s usage might not inspire confidence. Last year, Chicago’s second tight end, Cole Kmet, had just 30 receptions. If Likely signs a lucrative deal and ends up with similar stats, fans might be disappointed.
To keep Likely, the Ravens' game plan must evolve. Both Likely and Andrews need to be central to the passing strategy, alongside Derrick Henry in the backfield.
This raises another question: will the Ravens finally secure a true number one wide receiver? Balancing targets between a new receiver, Likely, and Andrews will be crucial.
As the offseason unfolds, the Ravens have a lot to consider. But one thing is clear: Lamar Jackson wants Isaiah Likely back in Baltimore, and that could shape the team’s strategy moving forward.