New England Patriots Target Massachusetts Native to Bolster Drake Maye's Surrounding The New England Patriots are reportedly considering a significant addition to their tight end corps as they look to enhance their pass-catching capabilities ahead of the 2026 season. While much of the focus has been on upgrading the wide receiver position, analysts suggest the team may prioritize a strong tight end option to complement quarterback Drake Maye. NFL writer Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports has predicted that the Patriots could target Isaiah Likely, a tight end currently with the Baltimore Ravens. Sullivan highlighted that while securing a wide receiver remains a popular expectation, the Patriots’ offensive strategy under coach Josh McDaniels has historically emphasized the tight end role. This approach is further underscored by the impending free agency of Hunter Henry, who is set to enter the final year of his contract in 2026. Likely, who will turn 26 in April, has established himself as a reliable target for the Ravens over the past four seasons. He has recorded 1,568 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in 63 games, demonstrating his ability to make an impact in key situations. Sullivan noted that Likely’s potential would be amplified by playing alongside Maye, an MVP-caliber quarterback, in a system that heavily features tight ends. The move would also mark a homecoming for Likely, who is a native of Massachusetts. This connection could add an extra layer of motivation, as the Patriots have a strong local fan base and a history of developing homegrown talent. Sullivan argued that adding Likely would provide the team with a dependable option to support Maye, particularly as the offense continues to evolve.#baltimore_ravens #new_england_patriots #isaias_likely #josh_mcdaniels #drake_maye
NFL Giants Ink Tight End Isaiah Likely to Three-Year, $40 Million Contract The New York Giants have finalized a significant free agency move by agreeing to terms with tight end Isaiah Likely on a three-year, $40 million contract. The deal, reported by NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, includes up to $47.5 million in performance incentives, making it one of the most lucrative contracts for a tight end in recent years. Likely, a key target for the Giants in the 2026 offseason, is expected to bolster their offensive options as the team looks to compete in the highly competitive NFC East. The signing marks a major addition to the Giants' roster, which has been actively pursuing upgrades to address weaknesses in their receiving corps. Likely, who previously played for the New England Patriots, brings experience and versatility to the team. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches against linebackers is expected to provide the Giants with a dynamic target in the passing game. The deal comes amid a flurry of activity in the NFL free agency market, with multiple teams making bold moves to reshape their rosters. The Giants’ decision to lock up Likely reflects their commitment to building a balanced offense capable of challenging for playoff contention. With the 2026 season approaching, the Giants’ front office has prioritized adding proven talent to complement their existing core. Likely’s contract underscores the growing importance of tight ends in the modern NFL, where players like him are often key contributors to high-octane offenses. His signing also highlights the Giants’ willingness to invest in players who can make an immediate impact.#ian_rapoport #tom_pelissero #new_england_patriots #new_york_giants #isaias_likely
Titans agreed to terms with ex-New York Giants TE Daniel Bellinger The Tennessee Titans have reached an agreement with tight end Daniel Bellinger, who previously played for the New York Giants, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. This move concludes Bellinger’s time with the Giants, where he was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 draft. Bellinger became a free agent after his rookie contract expired following the 2025 season. During his final year with the Giants, he started 10 of 16 games, logging 555 offensive snaps. His performance saw significant improvement, as he recorded career highs with 19 receptions for 286 yards, averaging 15.1 yards per catch—up from 8.9 yards per catch the previous season. He also scored two touchdowns. Despite his growth as a pass-catcher, the Giants chose not to re-sign Bellinger. Instead, they focused on strengthening their tight end group by signing a three-year deal with Isaiah Likely, a proven pass-catcher with experience in dynamic roles. The team also re-signed veteran Chris Manhertz to a one-year contract, emphasizing his elite blocking skills. Manhertz, who played all 17 games in 2025, contributed strongly with his run-blocking and special teams work. His re-signing adds continuity as a reliable inline blocker. The Giants’ approach prioritizes stability in blocking and pass-catching potential over retaining Bellinger. Bellinger now joins the Titans, where he will compete for playing time and aim to expand his role. The move marks a new chapter for the former Giant, who will look to build on his recent progress in a fresh environment.#new_york_giants #tennessee_titans #daniel_bellinger #jordan_schultz #isaias_likely
