The Baltimore Ravens will face the 2026 season without one of their emerging offensive weapons as tight end Isaiah Likely has officially signed a three-year, $40 million contract with the New York Giants. This move was confirmed on March 9, 2026, signaling a significant transition for both teams in the evolving NFL landscape.
Selected by the Ravens in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Likely quickly developed into a versatile and dynamic component of Baltimore's offense. Initially viewed as a complementary piece and possible successor to All-Pro tight end Mark Andrews, Likely's growth exceeded expectations. Throughout his four seasons with the Ravens, he was lauded for his contested catches, yards-after-catch ability, and adaptability to various offensive formations. His capability to line up as a "move" tight end -- shifting between the slot, wide receiver spots, and traditional in-line roles -- created matchup difficulties for defenses and expanded the Ravens' offensive playbook.
The financial commitment from the Giants -- averaging roughly $13.3 million annually -- underscores the high league-wide value placed on versatile offensive weapons like Likely. This contract is structured at three years and $40 million with potential incentives that could bring the total value higher. While Baltimore has made efforts in recent years to retain homegrown talent, including tight ends, this particular deal reportedly priced the Ravens out. Eric DeCosta, the Ravens' General Manager known for his prudent salary cap management, had to weigh this financial decision alongside other looming contract negotiations with cornerstone players.
One compelling storyline this offseason involves the Giants' head coach John Harbaugh, who also leads the Ravens. This unique connection provides a rare reunion for Likely, whose familiarity with Harbaugh's offensive principles and work ethic made him an attractive target for New York. The Giants' signing of Likely is regarded as a strategic move to integrate a proven scheme-compatible weapon immediately, as the team looks to rebuild an offense that needs added versatility and proven playmakers.
Losing Likely represents a significant change for the Ravens' offensive schemes. While Mark Andrews remains an elite tight end and key target for quarterback Lamar Jackson, Likely's departure removes a critical layer of flexibility. Baltimore's offensive coordinator, Declan Doyle, relied heavily on the ability to deploy two- and three-tight end packages ("12" and "13" personnel), with Likely often serving as a hybrid wide receiver in these sets. This versatility enabled Baltimore's offense to create favorable run-pass conflicts, stretching defenses and enhancing Jackson's arsenal of reliable targets over the middle and beyond.
In light of Likely's exit, the Ravens look inward to fill the void. Charlie Kolar, a fellow 2022 draft pick, appears poised for an expanded role. Although Kolar has primarily contributed as a blocker and red-zone target through limited playing time, expanding his route running and receiving responsibilities will be key. Baltimore may also explore the 2026 NFL Draft or selectively pursue free agents to bolster the tight end room, ensuring the team maintains offensive balance and depth.
Isaiah Likely's impact extends beyond the playfield; he was a beloved figure in the Ravens' locker room and among the fanbase. Known for his infectious energy and clutch performances -- notably a critical touchdown catch during the 2023 AFC Divisional Round -- Likely's development from a raw fourth-round pick into a high-paid starter is both inspiring and emblematic of Baltimore's strong player development culture. His departure to a conference rival naturally evokes mixed emotions in Baltimore.
From a league-wide perspective, the Giants' aggressive acquisition of Likely signals a renewed commitment to building a multifaceted offensive attack. Investing heavily at tight end indicates a strategy centered on physicality and versatility, likely designed to complement their young quarterback and address consistency issues that have plagued the offense in recent seasons.
The Ravens now face a pivotal offseason challenge. While developing future stars remains a priority, retaining all emerging homegrown talent amid a strict salary cap is often impossible. Eric DeCosta and the Ravens staff must recalibrate their roster plans, focusing on creativity and development to mitigate the loss of Likely's unique skill set. For the Giants, the $40 million investment is a bet on the best football of Isaiah Likely's career still unfolding.
As the 2026 league year officially begins, the Baltimore Ravens turn the page on the Isaiah Likely chapter -- grateful for his contributions, yet resolute in forging ahead competitively. Meanwhile, the New York Giants celebrate landing a dynamic tight end capable of reshaping their offensive identity as they aim to reemerge as a playoff contender.