How a 26-Year-Old Tight End Will Be a Key Piece for the 2026 Giants
The New York Giants' rebuild will not be forgotten by many around the league. Earlier during this offseason, the Giants signed Isaiah Likely to their roster. This may turn out to be one of the smartest additions the New York Giants made this offseason. The gaps needed to be filled, and he is definitely the right fit. After signing this former Baltimore Ravens tight end to a three-year deal, the Giants are clearly planning to make him a major piece of the offense under head coach John Harbaugh.
Likely gives New York something they have desperately needed for years, which is a true mismatch weapon at tight end. At 6-foot-4 with strong athleticism and reliable hands, this veteran tight end creates problems for linebackers in coverage and can overpower smaller defensive backs in the red zone. During his time in Baltimore, he constantly flashed big-play ability. Whenever he was given larger opportunities, especially during stretches when Mark Andrews was unavailable in Baltimore, the Massachusetts native was able to step up.
The fit becomes even more intriguing when you consider the Giants' current offensive structure, with uncertainty surrounding Malik Nabers’ recovery timeline during OTAs. The 141st overall pick could immediately become one of the safest and most reliable targets for quarterback Jaxson Dart. Young quarterbacks often rely heavily on tight ends because they provide easier throws over the middle of the field, and the 26-year-old tight end thrives in exactly those situations. His ability to work seams, sit in soft zones, and create yards after the catch should make life significantly easier for Dart early in the season.
The six-foot-four tight end also perfectly matches the type of physical football Harbaugh wants the Giants to play. The New York head coach is looking for bigger and better; this tight end fits what he is looking for. New York has spent the offseason building a tougher identity, with players like Cam Skattebo, and making improvements along the offensive line. Likely fits directly into that vision because he can contribute both as a receiver and as a blocker in multiple formations. A dire piece that the Giants have been missing for a long time.
What makes this signing especially dangerous for opponents is that defenses can no longer focus on a single player anymore. If Nabers returns healthy, defenses will have to choose between dedicating extra attention outside. They would also find themselves accounting for likely working in the middle of the field. Their opponents would have a tough time covering both of these players, who can move. That balance could open up an entirely new offense for New York in 2026.
