Long-Term Cheap Dart Throw for Jets: Isaiah Likely
In the last article, we discussed the potential of landing Romeo Doubs as the Jets’ big swing. Now, we are going to move into the dart throws for the Jets, and their first should be Isaiah Likely.
One Big Swing for Jets: Romeo Doubs
The 2026 offseason will be very much like the 2025 offseason for the Jets, especially when it comes to free agency. They won’t take more than one big swing in free agency, and Romeo Doubs will be that swing. Based on the previous articles written, the Jets will have 33 roster spots filled with $55,267,993 in cap space for Week 1.
Likely has performed well in his career so far with the Baltimore Ravens. So, it’s not a high-risk/high-reward upside swing like some of the signings in 2025. We have Jeremy Ruckert returning in a previous piece, and the addition of Likely would mean Jeremy Ruckert moves to TE3.
Jeremy Ruckert Could Earn Second Jets Contract in 2025
Here’s something that no one would’ve considered writing earlier this year. Jeremy Ruckert could be on his way to earning a second contract with the New York Jets.
The Jets want to be a team based around the run. Adding a tight end like Likely would definitely give the Jets more options in heavier set formations. He’s also no slouch in the passing game as a receiver, either. He would provide the Jets with a solid No. 2 option at TE, alongside Mason Taylor, especially in 12 personnel.
So what can Likey command on the open market?
Let’s dive in.
Contract Terms
5 years, $23,332,038
Guarantees
2026-28 guaranteed for injury at signing
2026 fully guaranteed at singing
2027 compensation guaranteed on fifth day of waiver period
2028 compensation: $2 million fully guaranteed fifth day of 2027, rest fully guaranteed fifth day of 2028
With the signing of Likely at this contract, the Jets would now have 35 players signed for their expected active roster, and $47,172,637 in cap space for Week 1. Given that the Jets had eight players from their 2025 draft class make the initial 53-man roster in 2025, that would leave 10 spots open for free agents.