Isaiah Likely has quickly emerged as a key offensive contributor for the New York Giants, demonstrating a level of production and versatility that has drawn attention five games into the 2026 NFL season. The former Baltimore Ravens backup tight end has recorded 33 receptions, ranking second among tight ends league-wide and nearing his career single-season high.

Likely’s impact has been notable not only statistically but also historically for the Giants. He is the first veteran free agent signing with the team since Plaxico Burress in 2005 to record multiple games featuring two or more touchdown catches during his contract. Other players with similar achievements were typically acquired through the draft or as undrafted rookies.

Reflecting on his transition from college football, Likely emphasized the increased complexity of NFL defenses and the importance of film study in adapting to the professional game. He credited the mentorship of teammate Mark Andrews for enhancing his field vision and situational awareness. “Being able to incorporate that in my game to now where I’m seeing the field like a quarterback… when you have a quarterback that sees the same way as you or talks about it the same way as you, that’s when it’s just night and day,” Likely said.

Likely’s role in the Giants’ offense diverges from some teams’ strategies of spreading their top pass catchers along the perimeter. Instead, he predominantly operates from the slot, where he runs 77.2 percent of his routes — one of the highest percentages among NFL tight ends — and has gained 195 of his 284 receiving yards. This alignment helps divert defensive safety coverage away from wide receiver Malik Nabers, reducing the likelihood of Double coverage on Nabers.

“My job is to make sure no team is able to double cover you [Nabers],” Likely said. “If I’m doing that, that means he’s going for 100-plus every game because there’s not a corner in the league that could just stay with him one-on-one all day.”

Giants tight ends coach Tim Kelly, a former NFL offensive coordinator, highlighted Likely’s versatile skill set, including his blocking ability and body control. Kelly reviewed Likely’s film extensively prior to free agency, noting that Likely had been playing behind an established starter but possessed untapped potential. “His ability to catch the ball away from the framework of his body and his body control… he’s got a lot of cool traits that show up consistently whether it’s a Wednesday or a Sunday,” Kelly said.

While some may categorize Likely primarily as a receiving tight end, the coaching staff resists that label. “He’s not just a receiver,” Kelly explained. Although his blocking style differs from other Giants players like Theo Johnson or Chris Manhertz, Likely’s attention to detail and instincts make him a valuable contributor in all facets of the game.

As the Giants continue their season, Likely’s early performance suggests he could be a foundational piece for their offense moving forward.