OWINGS MILLS — Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely leaped between a pair of defenders and came down with an exceptional one-handed grab that elicited applause from the season ticket-holders at the team’s second mandatory minicamp on Wednesday.
Likely has continuously made plays throughout the offseason workouts and this week and appears poised to have a breakout season.
Last year, after starting tight end Mark Andrews was injured, Likely became a primary target for quarterback Lamar Jackson and scored six touchdowns over the final seven games. Entering his third year, Likely could have a bigger role as Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken installs dual tight end sets.
Likely has been a favorite target this offseason for Jackson, who did not throw an interception on Wednesday after committing several turnovers the previous day.
Jackson was also asked about forfeiting bonus money for skipping most of the voluntary workouts, and he scoffed at the question.
“I never discuss my contract up here. I’m not about to start today,” Jackson said. “I’m focusing on just getting better and focusing on tomorrow. We just had a great practice. We’re just trying to keep it going.”
Wide receiver Tylan Wallace continued his solid offseason with several contested receptions. He has made the most of his opportunity and could be more of a factor in the passing game. Malik Cunningham also looked more comfortable as he makes the transition from quarterback to wide receiver. Zay Flowers caught a touchdown pass from Jackson in the corner of the end zone,
“I can’t really describe our chemistry. I believe it’s great,” Jackson said about his relationship with Flowers. “It is better than last year. Just being around him down in Florida, running every route on the route tree, and just trying to build. It is working out for us.”
Sean Ryan caught a touchdown pass from Josh Johnson.
Cornerback Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Adissa Isaac, who is dealing with a hamstring issue, worked out the side. Kyle Hamilton was in attendance but did not practice because of an elbow injury.
Rookie cornerback Bump Cooper Jr. made his first interception when he jumped a route on a pass by Johnson. Fellow rookie Ka’dar Hollman also had an interception on coverage against Rashod Bateman.
The other Ravens who did not participate were wide receiver Deonte Harty (personal), running back Keaton Mitchell (knee), cornerback Christian Matthew (undisclosed), center Nick Samac (undisclosed) and defensive tackle Rayshad Nichols (undisclosed).
