ESPN Analyst Aaron Schatz Identifies Isaiah Likely as Potential Miami Dolphins Target
In a recent analysis, ESPN's Aaron Schatz has pinpointed Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely as a probable candidate to bolster the Miami Dolphins' roster. The Dolphins are facing a critical need at the tight end position, as their top three players—Greg Dulcich, Julian Hill, and Darren Waller—are all set to become free agents. This situation presents an opportunity for a significant upgrade, with Likely emerging as a prime target.
Miami's Tight End Dilemma and Likely's Opportunity
The Dolphins' current tight end group has struggled with consistency and production. Darren Waller, in particular, managed only six touchdowns after returning from retirement, as hip and pectoral injuries limited him to just nine games. This has left a void that Likely could fill, potentially stepping into a starting role as the No. 1 tight end. In Baltimore, he has served as TE2 behind Mark Andrews, but his performance metrics suggest he is ready for a larger role.
Likely's statistics highlight his potential: he ranked sixth in 2023 and third in 2024, amassing 400 yards each season. However, his production dipped in 2025, where he fell to 19th place with only one touchdown. This decline could be attributed to limited opportunities, as the Ravens' offense heavily featured other players. In Miami, Likely might find a more favorable environment, especially with the recent release of high-target receivers like Tyreek Hill and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, which could free up more passes for him.
Contract Projections and Market Value for Isaiah Likely
According to Spotrac, Isaiah Likely's contract situation is poised for a significant shift. The 25-year-old, who hails from Coastal Carolina, signed a four-year deal with the Ravens in 2022 worth $4.16 million. This contract included a $504,340 signing bonus, $504,340 in guaranteed money, and an average annual salary of $1.04 million. As he approaches the 2026 season, Likely will be an unrestricted free agent.
Spotrac's calculated market value projects that Likely could sign a two-year contract worth $17.63 million, with an average annual salary of $8.8 million. This represents a substantial increase from his current earnings and underscores his growing value in the NFL. The Ravens have expressed interest in re-signing him, but competition from other teams, including the Dolphins, could drive up his price.
Baltimore's Desire to Retain Likely Amid Playoff Pressures
The Baltimore Ravens are keen on keeping Isaiah Likely, but they face challenges. General manager Eric DeCosta has publicly stated the team's intention to re-sign him, as reported by The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec via X. However, fan reactions on social media suggest skepticism. One user commented, "I think most have let him go; he wants to be a No. 1 TE. The only way he comes back is if the market crumbles."
Another point of contention is the performance of Mark Andrews, the Ravens' primary tight end. Critics argue that Andrews "needs to perform in the playoffs. Plain and simple," highlighting the pressure on him to deliver in key games. Some fans have even expressed concerns about paying for a "depreciating asset" in Andrews, suggesting that Likely might be a more cost-effective option long-term.
Likely's Struggles in 2025 and Competition for Targets
The 2025 season was a challenging one for Isaiah Likely, as he recorded career lows in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Contract extension talks with the Ravens' front office last summer were halted when he suffered a broken foot during training camp, leading to no further negotiations. This injury likely contributed to his diminished impact on the field.
Compounding his struggles, the Ravens' offense heavily favored other players. Wide receiver Zay Flowers received 118 targets, and tight end Mark Andrews had 70 targets, leaving Likely with only 36 targets across 15 games. This limited involvement has fueled calls for a change, with analysts like Schatz advocating for a move to a team where Likely can avoid being overshadowed by star players like Tyreek Hill or Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.
In summary, Isaiah Likely's future in the NFL is at a crossroads, with the Miami Dolphins emerging as a potential destination for the talented tight end. His projected market value and the Ravens' desire to retain him set the stage for an intriguing offseason battle. As teams evaluate their rosters, Likely's ability to shine in a new environment could make him a key acquisition for any franchise seeking to upgrade at the tight end position.
