Top NFL Free Agents Teams Should Avoid in 2026
The NFL has seen many players rise and fall throughout their careers, and Isaiah Likely is one of them. As a tight end for the Baltimore Ravens, he has often been overshadowed by star Mark Andrews. However, 2026 presents a significant opportunity for Likely to step into a more prominent role.
Challenges Ahead for Isaiah Likely in 2026
Despite his potential, Likely’s production has not reached its anticipated heights. His most impressive season was 2024, where he recorded a stat line of 42 receptions for 477 yards and six touchdowns. This performance came after his rookie season, during which he received 60 targets.
Inconsistency in Performance
- 2024 Opener: 9 catches for 111 yards and a touchdown.
- Followed Week 1 with only 2 catches for 26 yards.
Such inconsistencies raise questions about his ability to become the primary pass-catching option. Reports suggest he may be under consideration for the franchise tag. This tag is projected to be worth over $16 million for tight ends in 2026, significantly higher than his estimated market value of $9.1 million.
Future Prospects
At just 25 years old, there is still hope for Likely to develop into an elite player. However, his history of underwhelming production raises concerns about whether he can capitalize on this chance effectively.
Teams reconsidering their tight end options in 2026 should carefully evaluate Likely’s past performances. While he has shown glimpses of greatness, his inability to maintain high-level output could overshadow his potential.
