Is Isaiah Likely playing tonight vs. Bills? Exploring the Ravens TE's status for divisional round

The Baltimore Ravens prepare for a crucial AFC divisional round battle against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Tight end Isaiah Likely's role looms large as the teams clash on Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Isaiah Likely does not carry an injury designation heading into the weekend. His clean bill of health arrives at an opportune moment. The Ravens may lean heavily on their dynamic tight end against Buffalo's pass defense, which ranks 20th in yards allowed per game.

His recent performance against Pittsburgh highlighted his playmaking ability. Isaiah Likely tied for the team lead in targets while pacing all Ravens receivers and tight ends in yards.

NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens - Source: Imagn

The 6-foot-4, 247-pound tight end brings an imposing physical presence to Baltimore's passing attack. His 4.8-second speed in the 40-yard dash creates matchup problems for defenders tasked with containing him in the open field.

The timing couldn't be better for Likely's availability. Wide receiver Zay Flowers is listed as doubtful with a knee injury and Mark Andrews is shifting focus toward blocking duties. Likely's receiving prowess takes center stage.

Isaiah Likely's rising impact on the Ravens' aerial attack

NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens - Source: Imagn

The numbers tell a compelling story about Likely's effectiveness in the Ravens' offense. He averages 2.2 PPR points per target in 2024, outpacing fellow tight ends Sam LaPorta and Jonnu Smith.

His connection with quarterback Lamar Jackson shows interesting patterns. Likely sees 21.6% of targets when Jackson operates from a clean pocket, though this drops to 11.4% under pressure. Buffalo's defense enters the contest with the lowest pressure rate among playoff teams.

Bills defensive coordinator Bobby Babich faces a serious challenge. Neither safety Taylor Rapp nor Damar Hamlin matches up well against Isaiah Likely in single coverage, potentially forcing Buffalo into double-team situations.

The history between these teams adds intrigue to Likely's projected role. In their previous meeting, Ravens running backs and tight ends commanded two-thirds of Jackson's passing targets. Current circumstances point toward a similar game plan.

Recent usage patterns suggest room for growth in Likely's involvement. Despite running fewer than 20 routes in four of his last five games, his physical tools remain evident. The coaching staff may unleash him more fully given the playoff stakes.

The matchup particularly favors Isaiah Likely in scoring situations. His combination of size and athleticism poses problems for a Bills secondary that has struggled with athletic tight ends. Last week's dominance of Steelers defensive back Cameron Sutton demonstrated Likely's ability to win physical battles.

With an AFC championship berth on the line, Likely's presence provides Baltimore with a potent weapon against Buffalo's defensive schemes.