Tight end Isaiah Likely’s future with the Baltimore Ravens remains unclear as the team has yet to finalize a contract extension with him ahead of the upcoming free agency period. This delay has sparked speculation about his possible move to other NFL teams, including interest from the New England Patriots. Born in Massachusetts, Likely recently shared his openness to joining the Patriots offense during a live appearance on the Up & Adams show, expressing excitement at the prospect of playing closer to home and alongside quarterback Drake Maye.
Likely Reflects on the Comfort of Returning Home
When asked about the possibility of playing for the Patriots, Likely conveyed a deep affection for his home state and the strong family ties that would make such a move appealing. He referenced his rookie season and the challenges young players face when balancing career with personal life, emphasizing the importance of family and community.
“I love home,” Likely said. “When you’re coming after like, rookie year, as a kid, like, when you go home, there’s a lot of things and variables that kind of try to negate you from putting youself in situations to go home. Just like, family like, are you going to be more so down the street from here? Your mom, where you grew up?
“Just being able to get out of the way and getting out of the crib for a little bit. I mean, I love going back home. I love the Celtics. Love going back home to the Patriots.”
Reviewing Isaiah Likely’s Performance and Ravens’ Transition
Drafted by Baltimore with the 141st pick in 2022, Isaiah Likely has made a notable impact as a tight end over his four seasons. He has accumulated 1,568 receiving yards, 135 receptions, and 15 touchdowns. Last season, despite missing three games due to foot surgery, he managed 307 receiving yards and one touchdown in 14 outings. The Ravens concluded the season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs and subsequently ending head coach John Harbaugh’s 18-year tenure. The organization appointed Jesse Minter as the new head coach in hopes of revitalizing the team’s fortunes.
The Patriots’ Recent Success and Appeal to Likely
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots, led by first-year coach Mike Vrabel, achieved success by winning the AFC championship and competing in Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite their 29-13 defeat in the title game, the Patriots demonstrated a competitive roster that could be attractive to free agents like Likely. The team’s young quarterback, Drake Maye, was highlighted by Likely as a potential future teammate, adding to the allure of joining New England.
Keeping Options Open: Likely on Returning to Baltimore
During the interview, host Kay Adams also inquired if Likely still hopes to return to the Ravens. He responded by making it clear that negotiations remain open and that he respects the organization that initially gave him a chance, underscoring the business side of professional football.
“The door is always open for Baltimore,” Likely said. “That’s family. They took a chance on me while all 31 (teams) passed. I tell them that, to the fans, to the organization, my teammates. … This is business. I got to do right by me, my family, right by what I feel like I can do in this league. I feel like I’ve shown enough ability to be able to help out any quarterback, any situation, to be able to put points on the board and help offense.”
The Next Steps for Isaiah Likely’s Career in 2024
As free agency approaches, both the Baltimore Ravens and Isaiah Likely face critical decisions regarding their future together. Likely’s expressed willingness to return highlights the mutual interest, but the lack of a current contract agreement fuels speculation about a move to the Patriots or other teams. With the Patriots’ recent AFC success and attractive home environment, Likely’s potential signing could significantly impact their offense moving forward. Conversely, the Ravens’ new leadership under Jesse Minter will likely weigh their options carefully to determine if retaining Likely fits their long-term rebuild strategy.
What does MA native Isaiah Likely think about joining his hometown Patriots in free agency?@DaGorilla4 | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/GuQ9CLeRCn
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 4, 2026
Is TE Isaiah Likely open to a return to the Ravens?
"The door is always open for Baltimore… that's family."@DaGorilla4 | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/mzgnYrxtxA
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 4, 2026
