The Baltimore Ravens faced an early setback in their training camp when tight end Isaiah Likely rolled his ankle during a practice session, forcing him to be carted off the field. According to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic, head coach John Harbaugh confirmed that Likely would miss several weeks due to the injury. Further reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that Likely sustained a small fracture in his foot and will have surgery this week to repair the damage.
Expected Recovery Timeline and Impact on the Season
Although this injury presents a challenge for Likely as he enters the final year of his rookie contract, the prognosis is cautiously optimistic. The anticipated recovery period is about six weeks, with the possibility of an accelerated return depending on the surgery’s outcome. This means Likely could potentially return to active play near the start of the regular season, around Weeks 1 or 2. Despite this, the Ravens plan to approach his recovery conservatively, prioritizing his long-term health over rushing him back onto the field, given the grueling nature of the NFL schedule.
Likely’s Role and Performance with the Ravens
Isaiah Likely has established himself as a reliable asset for Baltimore’s offense. Over three seasons, he has demonstrated growth and promise, even if his career highs last season — 42 receptions for 477 yards and six touchdowns — were modest. Operating behind All-Pro tight end Mark Andrews, a three-time Pro Bowler and franchise touchdown leader, Likely has occasionally stepped into a primary role during Andrews’ absences, showcasing his potential as a TE1.
Statistical Comparisons and Team Depth at Tight End
According to Pro Football Focus, Mark Andrews ranked fourth among NFL tight ends last season, with Likely closely trailing in seventh place. The Ravens were one of only two teams to have two tight ends ranked in the PFF top ten, the other being Minnesota with T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver ranked eighth and ninth, respectively. Baltimore’s third option at tight end, Charlie Kolar, ranked 20th overall and eighth in receiving grades among tight ends, reflecting solid depth behind Andrews and Likely. Kolar is expected to take on a bigger role during Likely’s recovery, which could also serve as an opportunity for him to prove his value ahead of free agency.
Roster Considerations During Likely’s Recovery
The Ravens face strategic decisions regarding roster management due to Likely’s injury. They may choose to place him on the injured list, which would mandate that he miss at least the first four games of the season, or keep him on the active roster to avoid forcing him off early. This choice will also influence whether Baltimore signs an additional tight end to maintain depth. Beyond Andrews, Likely, and Kolar, the only other tight ends on the roster include undrafted rookie Sam Pitz and Zaire Mitchell-Paden, who has yet to play in an NFL game since joining in 2022. Any supplementary roster moves would likely be temporary solutions until Likely is fit to return.
Significance of Likely’s Recovery for Baltimore’s Offense
Isaiah Likely’s recovery timeline is crucial for Baltimore’s offensive plans. His ability to return by the season opener or shortly thereafter would alleviate pressure on Charlie Kolar and maintain the team‘s dynamic at tight end. Given the physical demands of a full NFL season, the Ravens’ cautious approach to his rehab reflects a preference for long-term availability over short-term gain. The organization will monitor his progress closely in the weeks ahead, balancing the desire to have him back on the field with the need to ensure complete healing.
“This injury is unfortunate, but the timeline gives us hope that Isaiah can be back fairly soon.” —John Harbaugh, Head Coach
“Likely has shown serious potential and can step in effectively when called upon.” —Jeff Zrebiec, Reporter
“Given the depth behind Mark Andrews, the Ravens have options but will want to keep their roster flexible as Isaiah recovers.” —Ian Rapoport, NFL Network