Did the Baltimore Ravens just gift TE Isiah Likely to New England Patriots?
The decision to trade Isaiah Likely from the Baltimore Ravens has sparked controversy and debate among fans, analysts, and players alike. Many are left wondering if the Ravens made a mistake in sending away a talented player who had shown promise on the field. In order to fully understand the ramifications of this trade, it is important to delve into the background of Isaiah Likely and his time with the Ravens.
Isaiah Likely, a highly touted prospect coming out of college, was drafted by the Ravens in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Known for his speed, agility, and playmaking ability, Likely was expected to make an immediate impact on the Ravens’ defense. However, injuries and inconsistent play limited his playing time during his rookie season.
Despite his struggles, Likely showed flashes of potential and made some key plays throughout the season. His interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8 was a highlight-reel moment that showcased his natural talent and instincts on the field. Many believed that with more experience and development, Likely could become a key contributor for the Ravens’ defense in the future.
However, as the 2021 season progressed, it became clear that Likely was not living up to expectations. His performance on the field was lackluster, and he seemed to struggle with the speed and physicality of the NFL game. As a result, the Ravens made the difficult decision to trade him to the New York Jets in exchange for a draft pick.
The trade was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some felt that the Ravens were giving up on Likely too soon and that he still had the potential to develop into a star player. Others believed that the trade was necessary in order to bring in new talent and address other areas of need on the roster.
One of the main arguments against the trade was the Ravens’ lack of depth at the cornerback position. With injuries and inconsistencies plaguing the secondary, many felt that keeping Likely on the roster would provide much-needed depth and competition for the starting job. Additionally, the Ravens’ struggles on defense throughout the season only added to the uncertainty surrounding the trade.
On the other hand, supporters of the trade pointed to Likely’s declining performance and lack of production as reasons for his departure. They argued that the Ravens needed to make bold moves in order to improve the team and compete for a playoff spot. By trading Likely, the Ravens were able to acquire additional draft capital and potentially address other areas of need on the roster.
Despite the differing opinions on the trade, one thing is clear: the Ravens’ decision to send Isaiah Likely away was a calculated risk. Only time will tell if this move will pay off in the long run. If Likely goes on to have a successful career with the Jets, the Ravens may come to regret their decision. However, if the trade allows the Ravens to address their defensive issues and improve as a team, it may be seen as a necessary move in the grand scheme of things.
In conclusion, the decision to trade Isaiah Likely was a difficult one for the Baltimore Ravens. While some may view it as a mistake, others see it as a necessary move in order to improve the team. Only time will tell if the trade was the right decision, but one thing is certain: Isaiah Likely’s departure will have a lasting impact on the Ravens’ defense and the team as a whole.
Source: Sporting News
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