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Big Blue View fantasy football takes on Isaiah Likely
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from Big Blue View about Isaiah Likely.
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63
Positive
6
Negative
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All Big Blue View insights about Isaiah Likely
PositiveProjectionOct 30, 2026
Likely has been everything the Giants hoped when they signed him to a three-year, $40 million contract despite never catching more than 42 passes in a season for Baltimore. He has emerged as a 1B receiver behind Nabers with 41 receptions for 395 yards and is on pace for a 100-catch, 959-yard season, blowing away his career bests if he stays healthy.PositiveProjectionOct 29, 2026
Isaiah Likely has 41 catches in his first seven games with the Giants, one shy of his career high with Baltimore in 2024; he is the third tight end in NFL history to surpass 40 receptions in his first seven games with a team (Brock Bowers and Keith Jackson are the others); Likely is on pace for 100 catches, which has happened just three times in franchise history at any position, and would shatter Jeremy Shockey's franchise record of 74 catches for tight ends, which has stood since 2002.NegativeRoleOct 28, 2026
Isaiah Likely is listed as a tight end but has functioned as the Giants' primary slot receiver. Per Pro Football Focus, Likely has aligned in the slot on 255 of his 370 snaps this season, representing 69% of his offensive snaps. This role consolidation raises questions about snap availability for potential slot receiver acquisitions like Josh Downs.NegativeRoleOct 27, 2026
Likely was part of the coverage scheme that Houston employed in McCarthy's first start. On a third-and-9 play in the fourth quarter, the Texans paid attention to Likely on the underneath play, which left the Cover-3 leverage off and slightly to the inside, allowing McCarthy to deliver a far-hash rocket to Fields for a first down. This demonstrates Likely's role in drawing coverage attention in the Giants' offense.NegativeRoleOct 26, 2026
Likely was released into a shallow route to the right on Tyrone Tracy's touchdown play, designed to freeze the Texans' defense by creating the potential of a zone-read. His route, combined with the extended mesh between McCarthy and Tracy, froze Clowney, Lassiter, and M.J. Stewart. Likely also got into position at the second level on Skattebo's 16-yard touchdown run.NegativeRoleOct 26, 2026
Likely had a quiet two catches on three targets against Houston and may have played injured part of the time, but remains part of the Giants' effective receiver corps alongside Nabers and Fields.NegativeInjuryOct 25, 2026
Likely was held in check by the Texans' defense and appeared to be playing injured for much of the second half. He got up slowly a few times and looked to be hobbling, but he gutted it out.PositiveRoleOct 24, 2026
Giants TE has been performing at a high level alongside Malik Nabers, giving J.J. McCarthy a chance to exploit a Texans secondary that has been a major disappointment; however, the source remains skeptical that McCarthy will be able to consistently attack this weakness due to Giants O-line injuries and Houston's elite edge rushers.NegativeRoleOct 23, 2026
Isaiah Likely will remain a focal point of the Giants' offense under J.J. McCarthy. The source notes that New York should not be shy to take shots when pre-snap coverage is confirmed in one-on-one scenarios to receivers who aren't Nabers or Likely, indicating Likely and Nabers will still be the primary targets.PositiveUsageOct 22, 2026
Giants TE has been uncoverable recently; provides best chance for J.J. McCarthy to succeed in debut start despite offensive line injuries and Texans pass rush.PositiveRoleOct 22, 2026
Isaiah Likely is the beneficiary of J.J. McCarthy's arm talent and anticipation on back-shoulder corner routes, which the source identifies as the throw that made McCarthy QB1 for the Giants. Likely's role as the target on nearly impossible-to-execute throws underscores his value in McCarthy's passing game.PositiveRoleOct 21, 2026
Isaiah Likely is playing out of his mind for the Giants; despite the team's serious question marks and inability to run the football, Likely has established himself as a key part of their offense.PositiveUsageOct 20, 2026
Likely was featured as a key target in McCarthy's drive, scoring on a 2-point conversion and recording multiple completions in high-leverage situations. He was isolated against safety Justin Reid (21) with outside leverage and made a very difficult catch through contact on a high-and-inside throw where McCarthy maximized his catch radius; he was involved in the formation on the 46-yard Nabers strike as the No. 3 to the far side running a deep horizontal crosser against Cover-4; and he caught a 20-yard completion with :40 left in the game on a perfectly layered throw over the middle hook defender in a high-level situation that gave the Giants a realistic shot at a comeback. The analysis credits Likely with securing difficult catches and being a focal point of McCarthy's offensive scheme.PositiveProjectionOct 19, 2026
Likely ranks 14th in NFL and 3rd among tight ends in first downs per route run this season, trailing only Brock Bowers and T.J. Hockenson. Strong contested catch rate and efficiency on contested targets, in good company with elite pass catchers.PositiveValueOct 19, 2026
Likely is the second-highest graded Giant on offense with a season receiving grade of 81.1; he leads all NFL tight ends in receiving yards (383) and TDs (5), grading in the 70s or higher in every game except the rainy Tennessee contest, making his $13.3M AAV contract look like much better value than initially perceived.PositiveUsageOct 18, 2026
The talented tight end had 6 catches on 11 targets for 99 yards. The source highlights the strong tandem he and Nabers are forming in the Giants' offense.PositiveUsageOct 18, 2026
Caught six passes for 99 yards; source includes him among the receiving options (alongside Nabers, Darnell Mooney, and Malachi Fields) that should be capable of running up big passing yards before the fourth quarter with better offensive play-calling.PositiveProjectionOct 18, 2026
Likely caught six of 11 targets for 99 yards with a touchdown in comeback mode; the source notes he is a major part of the Giants' offense and consistently makes plays in the short and intermediate parts of the field. He also secured an important two-point conversion in comeback mode and is described as very good.PositiveUsageOct 17, 2026
Giants TE Isaiah Likely has accumulated 18 catches for 160 yards and 2 touchdowns over the last two weeks, establishing himself as a primary target in the Giants' passing attack alongside WR Malik Nabers.PositiveMatchupOct 16, 2026
Likely is not a good match for Saints linebackers Danny Stutsman and Pete Werner; he could see a lot of slot cornerback Jonas Sanker, who allows an 88.9% completion rate and two touchdowns but is one of the better tacklers in space. Likely should be fine uncovering against this defensive personnel, and a hefty target share should remain.PositiveRoleOct 16, 2026
Likely defended Winston against the 'Jameis Winston experience' narrative, calling the phrase 'kind of insulting in a way' and emphasizing what fans don't see: Winston throwing with players needing extra work post-practice, discussing each route during defensive periods, and supporting tired teammates (bending down to tie Malik Nabers' cleat mid-game while managing protections and reading defenses). Likely credited Winston's hard work in OTAs and training camp, noting that despite Winston's public persona as 'a goofy guy,' he is 'a quarterback in National Football League' who is 'there for a reason.' Likely also highlighted a mature, collaborative conversation with Winston during his first day in the unit meeting about defensive reads.PositiveProjectionOct 15, 2026
Isaiah Likely is a Ride this week; he's been all the Giants could have hoped for when John Harbaugh brought him over with 25 targets across the last two games (Bowers/McBride type volume); he's the TE3 on the young season at 13.8 FPPG, trailing only those two studs, and one more week of Jameis feeding him should elevate him to the elites list.PositiveInjuryOct 15, 2026
Tight end Isaiah Likely (foot) was a full practice participant Thursday.PositiveProjectionOct 15, 2026
Isaiah Likely is on track with the preseason prediction that he would lead the team in receptions. He currently leads the Giants with 33 catches and has proved to be a key part of the new Giants offense.PositiveValueOct 14, 2026
Free agent acquisition TE signed to three-year, $40 million deal with $26 million guaranteed; has 4 receiving TDs (tied 4th in NFL) and 19 receiving first downs (most among all TEs through Week 5); described as 'a big reason why' Giants maintain coherent passing game despite Jameis Winston's 57.6% completion percentage (second-to-last in league); key playmaker alongside Malik Nabers in Giants' passing attack.PositiveRoleOct 13, 2026
Likely is an excellent receiving threat who is underutilized in the Giants' current heavy personnel packages; if used as a tight end instead of Chris Manhertz or Aaron Stinnie, he would provide four capable receivers on the field and open up play-action opportunities in condensed sets against base defenses.PositiveUsageOct 13, 2026
Isaiah Likely was one of the Giants' top pass catchers in Week 5, posting 11 catches for 94 yards and 2 touchdowns; the source notes the two top pass catchers getting more involved, especially in big moments, will be crucial for the offense going forward.PositiveUsageOct 12, 2026
Isaiah Likely caught 11 balls on 13 targets for 94 yards and 2 TDs in Week 5, with most catches coming inside 10 yards at the catch point. The source suggests using Malik Nabers more on intermediate/deep patterns to clear things out for Likely, who is Jameis Winston's other favorite receiver.PositiveProjectionOct 12, 2026
Likely had an excellent day catching the ball and was the only Giants offensive player judged to have played an excellent game by PFF; he would have graded even higher had he not incurred two penalties.PositiveRoleOct 12, 2026
Scored two touchdowns in the Giants' fourth-quarter comeback from a 27-13 deficit; led three consecutive TD drives totaling 32 plays that resulted in two Likely touchdowns and a Malik Nabers touchdown. On the first TD, the Giants stretched the zone defense toward the sideline with routes from Malachi Fields and Darnell Mooney, allowing Likely to slip into the vacated spot for a touchdown reception. On the second TD, Likely crossed the goal line on fourth down to bring the Giants within one score and eventually force overtime.PositiveProjectionOct 12, 2026
Likely has emerged as the Giants' primary receiving target after being a secondary option behind Mark Andrews in Baltimore. Through five games, he has 33 receptions (averaging 36 per season with Ravens), 4 TDs, and is on pace for 965 yards. He had 2 TDs and 11 receptions for 121 yards in the Commanders game, demonstrating consistency with only one drop on the season.PositiveUsageOct 11, 2026
The tight end caught a career-high 11 passes on 13 targets for 94 yards and 2 touchdowns against Washington. Per NextGen Stats, Likely ran 87.0% of his routes from the slot in Week 5, catching 9 of his 11 targets for 78 yards and 2 touchdowns when operating from the slot. Likely now leads all tight ends with 195 receiving yards from the slot entering the afternoon slate. He also added an 11-yard reception from tight alignment and a 5-yard reception from the backfield. The connection between Likely and Winston, which looked uncertain after Jaxson Dart's season-ending injury, solidified on Sunday.NegativeUsageOct 11, 2026
Likely is described as such a reliable weapon for the Giants offense with many plays scripted for him; he caught 11 of 13 passes for 94 yards and two touchdowns. The source notes Likely hobbled off the field at the end and expresses concern about his health status.PositiveInjuryOct 9, 2026
Tight end Isaiah Likely is expected to play Week 5 despite managing a knee and groin injury, indicating the Giants expect him to be available for the Commanders matchup.PositiveUsageOct 9, 2026
Isaiah Likely's usage should remain consistent; he is being used in the short/intermediate parts of the field as an easy target with high-YAC upside.NegativeInjuryOct 8, 2026
Tight end was a limited practice participant Thursday with knee and groin injuries.PositiveMatchupOct 8, 2026
Likely is identified as a key matchup advantage for the Giants against the Commanders' defense; the source highlights that 'the Giants can gain an edge with the matchups outside with Malik Nabers, Malachi Fields, and Isaiah Likely,' positioning him as a primary target to exploit Washington's pass defense weakness.PositiveUsageOct 8, 2026
TE ranked in the Top-15 this week and the source is high on him @WAS; he saw 12 more targets last week, indicating increased opportunity.NegativeInjuryOct 7, 2026
Giants tight end Isaiah Likely had limited participation due to knee and groin injuries.PositiveUsageOct 6, 2026
Likely brought down 7 catches in Week 4, bringing his season total to 22 receptions, demonstrating consistent high-volume target share in the Giants offense.PositiveUsageOct 4, 2026
Likely caught seven of twelve targets for 66 yards, doing his part in Week 4 alongside Theo Johnson; the tight end group blocked adequately and both tight ends did enough when their numbers were called, earning the position group an A grade.PositiveUsageOct 4, 2026
Likely made a great one-handed catch to advance the ball near the first-down marker; the Giants challenged the spot and won, earning a first down in the red zone.PositiveUsageOct 4, 2026
Likely caught a 34-yard pass from Jameis Winston on 3rd and 4 in the fourth quarter, helping the Giants extend a drive. The source highlights this as a key conversion play that set up the Giants' offense in the red zone.PositiveMatchupOct 2, 2026
The Cardinals' corners are all shorter than 5-foot-11, which presents an opportunity for Isaiah Likely. Additionally, Likely is proving to be an effective zone buster against the Cardinals' zone coverage tendencies. Likely has size advantages as well as good quickness for his size, making him well-suited to attack vertically into the end zone rather than relying on lateral plays.NegativeRoleSep 30, 2026
Likely is a big receiving target available in the Giants offense. The source notes that despite having Likely and other receiving targets, the Giants have struggled to generate explosive plays and must focus on scoring touchdowns in the red zone, where they are 0 for 4 over the past two weeks.NegativeUsageSep 29, 2026
Drew the lowest grade on offense because he only caught 2 of 5 targets and had a drop in Week 3.NegativeUsageSep 27, 2026
Likely was targeted but caught only two of five targets for 13 yards as the Giants' passing attack was not in sync; the source notes the tight ends' blocking seemed adequate but the passing game struggled.PositiveRoleSep 25, 2026
Likely remains a centerpiece of the Giants offense under Winston; athletic tight end capable of stressing the seams of Saleh's Cover 3 shells and picking up yards after catch on screens and quick passes, positioning him to benefit from the Giants' unconventional personnel-heavy tight end approach.PositiveMatchupSep 24, 2026
Potential beneficiary of Winston's deep-passing ability and scheme adjustment. Giants could use heavy packages and play-action to open up explosive passes to Likely, which would stress defenses vertically and open up run game. Tight end specifically named as target for this offensive approach.PositiveRoleSep 23, 2026
Isaiah Likely was one of a couple of receivers who played fairly well in the Giants' loss to the Rams, standing out positively among an otherwise struggling offensive unit.NegativeUsageSep 22, 2026
Likely made a nice adjustment on a poorly thrown pass from Dart for a 5-yard gain on the opening drive, showing receiver skill despite poor quarterback execution.PositiveUsageSep 22, 2026
Isaiah Likely was targeted ten times and caught five for 33 yards. Despite the high target volume, he was unable to generate significant production in the Giants' offensive collapse.PositiveRoleSep 22, 2026
Giants TE has quickly established himself as Jaxson Dart's security blanket; targeted on third down situations, with the source noting 'Third and Likely' as the go-to option on third-and-short.PositiveRoleSep 21, 2026
Isaiah Likely is identified as the most valuable player to add to the Rams roster from the Giants. Evan Craig notes the Rams love their tight ends and use them extensively in various offensive packages. Likely is described as a solid tight end who is quite effective in the passing game and would be a strong target for Matthew Stafford.NegativeRoleSep 18, 2026
Giants TE fumbled on a quick stick route over the middle while attempting to pick up yards after the catch; took a hand off the ball to stiff-arm a defender while a second defender punched the ball out from behind. The lesson is to avoid compromising ball security to pick up extra yardage; the team won't be nearly so lucky with fumble recovery next time.PositiveRoleSep 18, 2026
Likely caught a 2-yard TD from Dart in Week 1 and has developed strong chemistry with the QB during training camp; the two spent considerable time together working on route concepts, off-script plays, and building trust throughout the summer, positioning Likely as a key target in the Giants' offensive scheme.PositiveRoleSep 17, 2026
Likely caught all 8 targets against Dallas in Week 1, scoring 2 TDs with the other 6 catches moving the chains for first downs. Nagy compared the developing Dart-Likely chemistry to the early stages of the Mahomes-Kelce connection Nagy witnessed in Kansas City, noting both players are 'super, super talented' and the connection will continue to develop. Nagy specifically praised a 19-yard third-and-10 conversion where Dart threw with pressure in his face and Likely made a great route and catch.PositiveProjectionSep 17, 2026
Likely is listed as a Ride of the Week for Week 2 at Los Angeles, indicating the source views him as a strong play.PositiveUsageSep 15, 2026
Likely caught all eight of his targets for 78 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1. He was a key weapon in the Giants' offensive scheme, including a crucial third-and-4 conversion where Dart threw away from defensive leverage to find him. Likely showcased smooth and deceptive route running, particularly on a route against cornerback Shavon Revel that highlighted his dangerous skill set as a weapon.PositiveUsageSep 15, 2026
Likely was a key target in Dart's game plan, recording multiple third-down conversions and touchdown receptions. On a red-zone third-and-4, Likely ran the MOSH (man over) concept and Dart placed the ball toward his inside shoulder away from safety Malik Hooker for a conversion. Likely extended a drive with a 19-yard corner route in Cover-1 man coverage, manipulating cornerback Shavon Revel in space. He finished the two-minute drill wide open in the back of the end zone after the Cowboys had a blown coverage, with 8.8 yards of separation when the ball arrived.PositiveRoleSep 15, 2026
TE Isaiah Likely made an immediate impact in his Giants debut, catching all 8 targets for 78 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was Jaxson Dart's go-to receiver, including two critical third-down conversions on the game-ending drive. The source notes the chemistry between Likely and Dart from training camp carried over to the season, and despite never reaching 500 receiving yards in four years with the Ravens, he is positioned to have a huge campaign with the Giants.PositiveRoleSep 15, 2026
Likely scored two touchdowns in the Giants' victory: one on a play-action roll-out in the second half and another on a blown Dallas coverage in the end-of-half drive; he was a key receiving target in the Giants' heavy personnel packages and play-action offense, demonstrating his value in the red zone and as a pass-catching threat.PositiveRoleSep 14, 2026
Likely led the receiving group with an 82.8 PFF grade, catching all 8 balls thrown his way for 2 TDs and two contested catches. He quickly established himself as Dart's go-to guy, taking over the Wan'Dale Robinson slot receiver role to some extent with 17 slot snaps. His only blemish was a fumble.PositiveRoleSep 14, 2026
Confirmed as Dart's favorite target in critical situations; eight catches on Sunday included a pair of red zone touchdowns and four plays that produced first downs, validating the source's summer assessment of Likely's role in high-leverage moments.PositiveRoleSep 14, 2026
Isaiah Likely is the linchpin of the Giants' offense; he caught 8 receptions on 8 targets for 78 yards and a touchdown, including a beautiful catch with toes down in the back of the end zone that was a key play in the Giants' 28-20 victory over Dallas. His 15-yard TD pass was Jaxson Dart's longest completion of the night.PositiveProjectionSep 14, 2026
Likely is described as a difference-making tight end who converted two third downs in the first half and took advantage of blown coverage in the red zone for his first Giants touchdown. He finished with eight catches for 78 yards and two touchdowns, flashing strong hands and reliability. The source grades his performance as A+.PositiveRoleSep 14, 2026
Likely was the Giants' first option in the red zone and clutch situations, catching 8 of 8 targets for 78 yards and 2 TDs. He converted four passes into first downs on critical third-down situations (third-and-9, third-and-3) late in the game to close out the victory, and caught two short TD passes in the red zone, validating the connection Dart developed with him throughout training camp.PositiveRoleSep 13, 2026
Tight end positioned to see increased usage if Nabers cannot play in Giants season opener. Source indicates Giants will likely depend on Likely to fill receiving void left by Nabers' potential absence.PositiveRoleSep 12, 2026
Isaiah Likely signed a three-year, $40 million deal with the Giants as a free-agent acquisition and has quietly become quarterback Jaxson Dart's go-to pass catcher during training camp. Despite the New York media's focus on Odell Beckham Jr.'s reunion and Malik Nabers' return from injury, Likely was Dart's favorite target this summer with 44 catches in 11-on-11 team periods during camp. The source projects that 'Likely figures to be a big piece of this offense' with or without Nabers' availability in Week 1.PositiveUsageSep 10, 2026
Giants tight end was Jaxson Dart's most common target in training camp and will be heavily involved as a pass catcher in the Giants' heavy-set offense. Likely will also serve as a secondary blocker against Dallas' lighter-side linebackers in the run game, leveraging his size advantage.PositiveValueSep 8, 2026
Ranked in the Top-15 this week, Likely is a 'ride' as the source is high on him this week.PositiveRoleSep 8, 2026
Likely will line up or motion into the slot as part of the Giants' pass-catching rotation, which will include Malik Nabers, Odell Beckham Jr., Darnell Mooney, and Tyrone Tracy. The Giants will employ far more 21 (two back), 12 (two tight end), and 13 (three tight end) personnel sets than in recent years, mirroring the Ravens' approach of using non-receiver options as pass catchers.PositiveRoleSep 6, 2026
Likely transitioned from Baltimore to New York with Harbaugh and has embraced the coach's intensive training camp approach. After four years in Baltimore, Likely noted that the Giants' 11-day Greenbrier camp with 10 practices felt normal to him, contrasting sharply with the Giants' historically lighter summer preparation. Likely stated: "if I wake up, I'm putting on cleats. That's just the mantra I have," and observed that Giants players have adopted this same intensity-focused approach, with the team now operating under the philosophy that "if we're in the building, it's all ball." This suggests Likely is well-positioned to thrive under Harbaugh's demanding system and may benefit from the organizational culture shift.PositiveBreakoutSep 3, 2026
Likely is positioned as a bold breakout candidate for the Giants in 2026. Giants coaches light up when discussing the free agent signee who came over from Baltimore with John Harbaugh; they believe he'll be a real asset for Jaxson Dart as a receiver and think he can win in both man and zone coverage. Likely is a regular visitor to the quarterbacks room and has formed a strong connection with Dart on and off the field. He is a strong candidate to be the team's second-leading receiver this season and could be even more than that if Malik Nabers needs time to get up to speed coming off his injury.NegativeProjectionSep 1, 2026
Ranked 15th overall in Tier IV – The Upside Guys in the source's final 2026 tight end rankings for Half-point PPR scoring.PositiveRoleAug 30, 2026
Likely emerged as a favorite target for Dart during the summer, especially in critical situations. The Giants need Likely to be a major factor in their passing attack.PositiveRoleAug 29, 2026
TE signed as free agent by Giants for 2026; part of Harbaugh's competitive roster that avoids a full rebuild; offensive weapon supporting Dart's second-year development and the team's playoff contention outlook.NegativeDepth ChartAug 29, 2026
Isaiah Likely was not in uniform during pregame warmups for the preseason Week 3 finale, indicating he was held out of the game and likely secured a roster spot.PositiveBreakoutAug 25, 2026
New York is hoping for a leap from TE Isaiah Likely, a John Harbaugh transport from Baltimore who often thrived in limited action behind Mark Andrews. The expectation is that Likely will have increased opportunity with the Giants.NegativeDepth ChartAug 24, 2026
Likely is projected as a lock to make the Giants' 53-man roster at tight end.