1. The Baltimore Ravens need the best from Isaiah Likely
The odds of Mark Andrews returning for the Baltimore Ravens in the playoffs are pretty slim at this point. However, that has not been much of an issue for the team because Isaiah Likely has been there.
Likely has not been quite as dynamic as Andrews, but the drop-off from one of the best tight ends in the NFL to Likely has not been too noticeable.
Likely is averaging 1.8 yards per route run since week 12. That includes week 18, in which he had two catches for 31 yards and a touchdown with Tyler Huntley at quarterback. The Ravens wanted to rest starters, and Likely did not play much, but it was good to keep him out there for the Steelers game.
The Steelers were playing for something, so it was quality competition, and a player like Likely simply does not have the experience to sit out when he has a chance to get work in a meaningful game. Playing well against a playoff defense that needed the game and playing well with Tyler Huntley is valuable for his progress. Now, he gets the bye week off with the rest of the team.
We could end up seeing the best from Isaiah Likely with his most experienced and rest as the Baltimore Ravens head into the playoffs.