OWINGS MILLS — Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely once again trained with some of the NFL’s best tight ends this week in Nashville.
Likely attended the so-called Tight End University hosted by Kansas City’s Travis Kelce, San Franciso’s George Kittle and Greg Olsen, who spent 14 years in the NFL with the Bears, Panthers, and Seahawks. The three-day program hosted 70 players and retired players overall to bond and participate in drills. Tight End University also provides various charitable initiatives for the local community.
“I came last year, and I had a great time. George, Greg and Trav put together a great clinic, whether it’s [on or off the field], they always bring tight ends around to get knowledge,” Likely told the Tennessean.
Likely also attended all of the Ravens’ offseason workouts and is poised for 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 in 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.
“It’s going to be special,” Andrews said. “When you have two guys that are dynamic, [there will be] mismatches all over the field – it doesn’t matter where you put us. That’s tough to gameplan for. [We’re] both guys that love to play ball, love to compete, and it’s going to be fun.
“Really, our whole tight end room is special right now, and I’m excited about that. We’re just trying to grow and get better each and every day. [I’m] very thankful to have the tight end group that we have and just continue to get better. So, it’ll be fun to see how we’re used.”
Likely thinks the Ravens’ offense can be more effective than last season, especially with the addition of running back Derrick Henry. He also likes the Ravens’ group of wide receivers, which includes Rashid Bateman, Zay Flowers, Nelson Agholor and rookie fourth-round pick Devontez Walker,
Ravens coach John Harbaugh expects at least three tight ends — Andrews, Likely, and Charlie Kolar — to play key roles. In addition, the Ravens have the versatile Pat Ricard, who can play fullback and tight end, and added Joe Evans, an undrafted player from Iowa who has the potential to play on both sides of the ball.
“The young tight ends evolving and growing is going to be a big part of what we’re doing,” Harbaugh said. “There’s no doubt. I think Charlie is going to take a big step. Isaiah is going to take even another big step. He took a big step last year. He’s a talented guy. So, [we have] those two guys.”
