John Harbaugh recruiting former Ravens player to Giants has revamped the offense

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10 March 2026 at 20:40

The New York Giants are entering a new offensive era. They have a young star quarterback, Jaxson Dart, and a new head coach in John Harbaugh. Now, after the addition of tight end Isaiah Likely, who now reunites with head coach John Harbaugh in New York, things are looking up. The move has the potential to reshape the Giants offense, giving the team a versatile weapon at tight end while bringing a familiar connection between coach and player.

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A Familiar Connection

Jan 20, 2026; East Rutherford, NJ, USA. John Harbaugh arrives at the press conference announcing his hiring as the next New York Giants head coach at Quest Diagnostics Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

Likely previously developed into one of the more intriguing tight ends in the league while playing under Harbaugh with the Baltimore Ravens. Known for his athleticism, route-running ability, and yards-after-catch production, Likely proved capable of being a dynamic receiving option.

His familiarity with Harbaugh’s offensive philosophy could help him transition quickly into the Giants’ system. For coaches, having players who already understand their scheme can accelerate the implementation of new offensive ideas.

A New Weapon for the Giants

The Giants have been looking to add more versatility to their offense, and Likely brings exactly that. At 6-foot-4 with strong receiving ability, he can line up in multiple positions. As a traditional tight end, slot receiver, or even motioning across formations. This flexibility allows offensive coordinators to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties.

Adding a player like Likely could open up more opportunities in the passing game while also helping diversify the team’s offensive approach. The Giants offense has been inconsistent for years.

Potential Impact on the Offense

Dec 7, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely (80) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images

If Likely performs the way he did during his time in Baltimore, he could quickly become one of the Giants most important offensive playmakers. Modern NFL offenses increasingly rely on athletic tight ends who can stretch the field and create matchup problems. Likely’s skill set fits perfectly into that trend.

For a Giants team looking to take a step forward offensively, the addition of a proven pass-catching tight end could be a key piece of the puzzle. Having another weapon for Jaxson Dart can’t hurt either.

A New Chapter in New York

The reunion between John Harbaugh and Isaiah Likely signals a clear attempt by the Giants to reshape their offense with familiar talent and proven production. If the chemistry between coach and player carries over to New York, the Giants may have just added a difference-maker capable of helping elevate their offense in the seasons ahead.