The New York Giants have had an incredibly active offseason, as the franchise has a revamped coaching staff under head coach John Harbaugh, and also brought in a bunch of new faces on both sides of the ball.
One of New York's prominent offseason acquisitions was tight end Isiah Likely. The former Baltimore Raven reunited with Harbaugh in the Big Apple on a three-year deal worth $40 million.
Likely is slated to be the Giants' starting tight end this season, and though the 26-year-old wasn't very productive in his final year with the Ravens in 2025, there is still a ton of hype around him.
Likely named one of the best value acquistions of NFL offseason
Bleacher Report's Moe Moton listed New York signing Likely as the 23rd-best move of the offseason and one of the best value moves. Moton believes star wide receiver Malik Nabers' uncertain health puts the spotlight on Likely to take on a featured role in the Giants' offense.
"As more details emerge about Pro Bowl wideout Malik Nabers' complicated recovery from a torn ACL, Isaiah Likely becomes more valuable to the New York Giants offense. Head coach John Harbaugh told reporters the team doesn't have a timetable for Nabers' return. Likely could be Big Blue's lead pass-catcher in the first month or so of the season," Moton said.
With Nabers' status for Week 1 up in the air, and New York still facing some questions in the receiver room despite all the veteran signings, Likely has to step up.
The Coastal Carolina product had just 307 yards and a touchdown on 27 catches last season, but Likely hasn't been given the opportunity to be a full-time starter so far in his career with Mark Andrews in Baltimore.
Likely has still shown a ton of promise through four seasons, especially in 2024 when he had 477 yards and six touchdowns and was a dynamic playmaker for quarterback Lamar Jackson.
If Likely can post the breakout season we've all been patiently waiting for, New York's passing offense should be incredibly explosive, especially when Nabers comes back, and if the team's other offensive acquisitions can also make an impact.
As for his contract, Likely's $40 million deal could look like an absolute bargain if he turns out to be the electric receiving talent we've seen glimpses of over the last few years.