The Baltimore Ravens had two key starters injured in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills—tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard—and with Week 2 fast approaching, it looks like the duo will be out for at least one more game. Star tight end Mark Andrews had snaps almost entirely to himself in Buffalo and will once again see a similar situation this week. The team’s matchup against the Cleveland Browns is another massive chance to prove himself.
Andrews disappointed in the season opener, tallying just one catch for five yards. Quarterback Lamar Jackson only threw it 19 times, but Andrews was pretty much a non-factor in Week 1. After a disappointing end to the 2024 campaign, he is looking to get started on the right foot this year. With Likely missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday, the door is open for a big game from Andrews.
The 30-year-old is in a contract year, and while it appears to be his last hurrah in Baltimore, as Likely is expected to take over the starting reps next season, he will likely be looking to earn another big payday elsewhere.
Ravens' prolific weapon has everything to prove in pivotal showdown with Browns
Injuries haunted the first four weeks of Andrews’ 2024 season, but he found his footing in Week 5 and never looked back. He hauled in 11 touchdowns and proved to be a reliable middle-of-the-field threat for Jackson. However, there are questions about potential regression, as he will turn 31 this year.
If there is any opportunity for Andrews to prove he is the same player, a game against the Browns is the perfect chance. Throughout his nine-year career, he has amassed 59 catches for 755 yards and 11 touchdowns against Cleveland. Those numbers are good for around four receptions, 54 yards, and nearly a touchdown per game.
Andrews will likely never come close to reaching 1,000 yards again. There are too many mouths to feed in Baltimore. With Jackson, Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Isaiah Likely, and more demanding the ball, Andrews can only do so much damage. But he always makes an impact regardless of how many targets he sees.
When Likely comes back from his foot injury, the competition for snaps will significantly increase. Add in a larger focus on Charlie Kolar this year, and Andrews may not see the field as often as in years past. He will need to make the most of this opportunity vs. the Browns.