athlonsports.com

Lamar Jackson's Ravens Receive Tough Blow Ahead of-Bills Game

In This Story

Baltimore Ravens

Sep 5, 2025 4:35 PM EDT

Week 1 of the National Football League season has arrived, and arguably the biggest game of the week comes in primetime on “Sunday Night Football.” It is the Buffalo Bills hosting the Baltimore Ravens, in a battle of MVP quarterbacks with Josh Allen taking on Lamar Jackson taking.

On Friday, the Ravens announced some bad news for Jackson and the offense. One of his top targets, tight end Isaiah Likely, has been declared out for the game with an ankle injury.

Likely, since late July due to an ankle injury and was still not able to practice this week, was ramping up in individual drills, which many were hoping was a sign he could be on his way to returning. It will not be in Week 1.

Oops! We’re unable to load this content right now.

View directly on 𝕏

The 25-year-old tight end played his college football at Coastal Carolina and is entering his fourth season with the Ravens. In 49 games, Likely has 108 receptions for 1,261 yards and 14 touchdowns. Last season, he had a career-high 42 receptions, 477 yards and six touchdowns.

Likely has also played in five postseason games in three seasons and has 11 receptions for 176 yards and two touchdowns.

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson celebrates touchdown with TE Isaiah Likely

That gives more opportunities to the birthday boy, Mark Andrews. After celebrating his 30th birthday on Saturday, Andrews will get the start at tight end for the 56th time in his career. Andrews had a career-high 11 touchdown receptions a season ago and has 51 in his Ravens career. Andrews has played in eight postseason games but has yet to record a touchdown reception.

The next chance for Likely to suit up will come on Sept. 14 as the Ravens play their home opener against the Cleveland Browns.

Jackson is coming off a massive season in 2024. While he finished second in MVP voting to Josh Allen, his 4,172 yards, 41 touchdown passes and just four interceptions were eye-popping. Plus, he rushed for 915 yards and four TDs. Jackson threw two touchdowns and an interception in the 27-25 loss in Buffalo in January that ended the Ravens’ season in the divisional round.

About the Author

Rodney Knuppel