Ravens fans won’t see star tight end Isaiah Likely on the field for Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills. Likely is recovering from foot surgery suffered during training camp, and the team is taking a cautious approach to his return. While progress is being made, the Ravens are holding him out of the season opener, aiming to get him back early in the season rather than rushing his recovery.
Isaiah Likely a Question Mark for 2025 Season Opener
Likely suffered a foot injury during a late July training camp session while participating in a one-on-one drill with defensive back Sanoussi Kane. Initial reports suggested a possible ankle or leg issue, but medical evaluations confirmed a minor foot fracture, which required surgery later that month. The Ravens opted not to place him on injured reserve, allowing for a faster recovery timeline without the mandatory four-game absence.
#Ravens TE Isaiah Likely, who is recovering nicely from a broken bone in his foot, is not expected to play in the team’s opener against the #Bills, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 3, 2025
Likely underwent surgery in late July and is healing as expected. He should be ready early in the season. pic.twitter.com/dwVF3wKij3
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed that Likely won’t play Week 1, noting the tight end is healing well and is expected to return within the first few weeks of the season. Ravens Wire’s Glenn Erby reported that the initial recovery projection of six to eight weeks aligns with him missing the opener.
Head Coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the cautious strategy, emphasizing the team is closely monitoring Likely’s progress through regular imaging and physical assessments.
Realistic Timeline for Likely’s Return
As of early September, Likely has participated in limited activities and walkthroughs but has not yet returned to full practice. If all goes well, he could be back on the field by Week 2 or 3.
In his absence, the Ravens will rely on their tight end corps, including Pro Bowler Mark Andrews and versatile blocker/receiver Charlie Kolar. Andrews is expected to shoulder the majority of the workload, while Kolar provides depth and flexibility in both the passing game and blocking schemes. Baltimore’s plan reflects confidence in Likely’s rehabilitation while ensuring the offense remains productive without him in the opener.
