March 13, 2026, 6:07 a.m. ET
Following the New York Giants‘ agreement with John Harbaugh to become their next head coach, speculation quickly arose about the team targeting free agents from the Baltimore Ravens.
The Giants followed through, signing several former Ravens players to join Harbaugh in New York. The most notable addition was tight end Isaiah Likely, who signed a lucrative three-year deal.
On Thursday, Likely addressed the media for the first time as a Giant and spoke about quarterback Jaxson Dart, who—like Harbaugh—drew him to the team.
“Man, Jaxson, you know, a great quarterback, a great young quarterback. Obviously shows a lot of charisma when he’s out there. Excited to get out there and play with him,” Likely said. “When you watch him, you see the type of drive he has to win any game by any means necessary. You love that when you have a quarterback like that that’s ready to do whatever it takes to win the game.”
When asked if Dart was a strong recruiter, Likely later added, “He got me here.”
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Likely’s strongest season came in 2024, when he recorded 42 receptions for 477 yards and six touchdowns while with the Ravens.
Likely now becomes the top tight end on the Giants’ roster, no longer competing with Mark Andrews for targets. After losing Wan’Dale Robinson in free agency and with Darius Slayton positioned as the No. 2 receiver, it appears Harbaugh envisions a larger role for Likely in the passing game.
The transition from Lamar Jackson to Jaxson Dart should not be too drastic, as the two quarterbacks share similar play styles. Dart’s competitive nature proved infectious on the team last season, and his drive to win clearly helped attract Likely to New York.
