Since returning to action, Baltimore Ravens fans have been waiting for the Isaiah Likely game. There's no denying how talented and athletically gifted the 6-foot-4 tight end is. Likely missed the first three weeks of the season with a foot injury, and with a ton of surrounding options, it's understandable why he hasn't had a statement game yet.
However, the stars could be aligning for Likely to have a monster game against the New York Jets this Sunday. With Rashod Bateman out once again, Likely seems in line for a bigger role, which could tilt the game in Baltimore's favor. For the 5-5 Ravens, every game matters as they pursue a playoff spot.
On Friday, Lamar Jackson said that Likely's time is coming, hinting at a big game on Sunday.
Lamar Jackson on Isaiah Likely's slow statistical season to date:
— Bobby Trosset (@bobbybaltim0re) November 21, 2025
"We have other tight ends, you know, other guys eating. ... His time is coming. ... When your number is called, I feel like he's gonna do what he's supposed to do."
In a contract year & after missing multiple… pic.twitter.com/txYFeovWqR
Isaiah Likely could be poised for a big game against the Jets
In a contract year, many were expecting Likely to have an increased role. Head coach John Harbaugh also said before the season that he wanted to see an All-Pro season from Likely. Still, Likely's injury, paired with Jackson's injury, made it tough for him to build momentum early. Plus, the Ravens are loaded with weapons, including tight end Mark Andrews, who has had a stellar season, recording five touchdowns and 276 yards.
For the season, Likely has recorded 118 yards and 12 receptions. Notably, more than half of his yards (60) came against the Miami Dolphins in Week 9. This game should be a reminder of what Likely is capable of — last season, Likely racked up 477 yards and six touchdowns.
Likely is probably not high on the Jets' scouting report, so it would behoove the Ravens to get him involved, especially since they aren't fully healthy. To create advantages, you have to catch your opponent off guard, and that's exactly what the Ravens could do with Likely.
Likely's explosiveness could give the Ravens a massive advantage. He has recorded 11.5 receiving yards per reception for his career and can break out for a big play at any moment. It's rare to see a tight end who is this fast and athletic.
From a matchup standpoint, the Jets are giving up 329 yards per game, which ranks 20th in the league. They aren't one of the worst defenses in the league, but they're certainly getable. Undoubtedly, the Ravens will try to get some explosive plays against the Jets, which would favor Likely.
Perhaps Jackson's comments turn into a prophecy on Sunday, and it would certainly delight all of Ravens Flock.