The Baltimore Ravens announced that tight end Isaiah Likely suffered a fractured bone in his foot, which will keep him off the field for roughly two months. This injury disrupts the team’s plans as they pursue a Super Bowl title, forcing Baltimore to adjust its roster and strategy quickly. To help fill the void, the Ravens have decided to bring back tight end Scotty Washington, who has previously spent time on their practice squad during the last two seasons.
Veteran Scotty Washington Returns to Baltimore Amid Likely’s Absence
Scotty Washington, a 6-foot-5, 240-pound tight end with experience across several NFL organizations, is set to rejoin the Ravens. Washington’s six-year professional career has included stops with the Cincinnati Bengals, New England Patriots, and Pittsburgh Steelers, though his only active roster playing time came during his tenure with the Patriots. Returning to Baltimore, Washington aims to provide depth and support as the team manages Likely’s inability to contribute this season.
Before the 2020 NFL Draft, Washington was considered a promising prospect but was hindered by an injury and positional uncertainties, having transitioned from wide receiver in college to tight end in the pros. In his senior year at Wake Forest in 2019, Washington was on track for All-American recognition, recording 35 catches for 607 yards and seven touchdowns over eight games before an ankle injury ended his season prematurely. His collegiate career totaled 13 touchdown receptions.
NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein highlighted Washington’s large frame and capability to secure contested catches, especially in scoring situations, yet also noted inconsistency in maximizing his athletic potential on the field.
Baltimore’s Tight End Corps and Contract Considerations
Despite Likely’s injury, the Ravens still boast an elite presence at the tight end position with three-time Pro Bowler Mark Andrews leading the unit. Tight end play remains crucial to Baltimore’s championship ambitions, with both Andrews and Likely reaching the final years of their contracts. Andrews is finishing a significant four-year, $56 million extension signed in 2021, while Likely is currently in the last year of his rookie contract signed after being drafted in the fourth round in 2022.
The timing of Likely’s injury could influence Baltimore’s approach to contract talks. Any efforts to negotiate new terms for Likely may be put on hold as the team waits to evaluate his recovery from this first major injury. The organization’s caution reflects the uncertainty that such injuries bring to long-term roster planning.
Ravens’ Path Forward with Adjusted Roster Dynamics
Isaiah Likely’s absence presents a significant challenge for Baltimore as they navigate the demanding NFL season. However, with Scotty Washington’s return providing needed reinforcement at tight end and Mark Andrews remaining a dominant contributor, the Ravens retain enough talent to stay competitive. How well Washington integrates and supports the offense in the coming weeks will be critical in balancing the setback caused by Likely’s injury.
The situation underscores the Ravens’ resilience and strategic adjustments in pursuit of their Super Bowl goals, highlighting the importance of squad depth and flexibility amid unforeseen circumstances.