The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots)' offense was solid last season, but they could look to add some more help for Drake Maye in free agency.
With Austin Hooper hitting free agency, the Patriots could look to add a new tight end to the offense. Additionally, Hunter Henry is also going into the final season of his contract, so adding a tight end in this year's tight-end-rich free agent class could be wise. With plenty of solid options slated to hit the market, the Patriots should target Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely.
Likely has not been the primary starting tight end for the Ravens in his four years with the team. However, when he is on the field, it is clear that he can make plays. He has 1,568 career yards and 15 touchdowns for the Ravens, despite starting just 26 of 63 possible games. The most offensive snaps he has played in a season were 627 in 2024.
For reference, Henry has played over 800 snaps in each of the last two seasons for the Patriots as their starting tight end. Likely has been stuck behind Mark Andrews on the depth chart, but he could thrive on a team where he has more opportunities. Not only is he not the No. 1 tight end on the Ravens, but their quarterback's running ability takes opportunities away from their pass catchers as well.
While Drake Maye is a solid runner himself, his legs are not a part of the Patriots offense like Lamar Jackson's are in Baltimore. Likely would still have to share the field with Henry next season, but after that, he could take over as the No. 1 tight end. He would give the Patriots another elite red zone threat.
Last season, the Patriots scored touchdowns on just 55.71% of their red zone trips, ranking 20th in football. 10 of Likely's career touchdowns have come in the red zone, and eight have come from inside the 10-yard line.
Likely will be a cheaper target in free agency than Kyle Pitts, David Njoku or Dallas Goedert. He may be flying under the radar, but he may just need the right opportunity to break out. Almost half of his yards have come after the catch, which is an area the Patriots need to improve as well.
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