The Baltimore Ravens have recently featured a strong duo of tight ends, with Mark Andrews capturing most of the spotlight following his contract extension. Isaiah Likely, though less highlighted due to injuries and snap count differences, has made important contributions when on the field. Now a free agent, Likely is aiming to expand his role and develop further, motivated by the lessons learned from Andrews during his time in Baltimore.
Learning from a Veteran and Pursuing Growth
In a recent interview with Jon Gruden on Barstool Sports, Likely shared his perspective on free agency and his conversations with his agent. The main focus for Likely is to flourish as a leading tight end on a team. His experience playing alongside Andrews provided valuable mentorship and insight into reaching star-level performance.
I just wanna be able to blossom,
Likely said.
I feel like the last couple of years I’ve had a great vet in Mark Andrews. He’s taught me everything to be a star-caliber tight end to the point where it’s like now, I feel like I just wanna be on a team where I can get out there and help a quarterback put up as many points as possible.
Potential Departure Due to Salary Decisions
With the Ravens committing significant financial resources to retain Andrews, it appears unlikely that Likely will remain with the team. Seeking a place where he can emerge as the primary tight end aligns with his ambitions. Despite being a reliable backup, Likely’s most recent season showed a dip in productivity, recording 27 receptions for 307 yards and a single touchdown—his lowest output so far.
Free Agency Outlook and Future Prospects
Even after a challenging season and a July foot injury that sidelined him for three games, Likely is expected to attract considerable interest in free agency. His recent engagement with an Instagram post hinting at a possible reunion with the New England Patriots fuels speculation about his next destination. Early hopes for a lower-cost contract seem unlikely as he prepares to command a substantial payday.
Implications for Likely’s Career and NFL Teams
Isaiah Likely’s free agency decision marks a pivotal moment in his career, reflecting his determination to step out of a supporting role and into a more prominent offensive position. Teams seeking a tight end who combines professional growth potential with experience mentoring under Mark Andrews may find in Likely a valuable asset. His next contract and team choice will likely influence both his trajectory and the dynamics of tight end roles across the league.
Isaiah Likely sat down with Jon Gruden in San Francisco in an interview that was just released today.
On what he told his agent as free agency looms:
"I just wanna be able to blossom. I feel like the last couple years I've had a great vet in Mark Andrews. He's taught me… pic.twitter.com/9dplb1xCdW
— Bobby Trosset (@bobbybaltim0re) February 19, 2026
