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Ryan Clark’s sudden exit from ESPN is making headlines. But before his departure, one of his takes has drawn attention. While discussing the New York Giants’ offense, he compared a young TE to the Kansas City Chiefs legend, Travis Kelce.
Ryan Clark discussed how the Giants’ TE Isaiah Likely could become one of the QB Jaxson Dart’s most reliable weapons. He compared Likely to the legendary Chiefs TE while explaining his abilities.
“And now with Jaxson Dart, to give him an outlet that’s closer to the line of scrimmage, closer to the tackle box, I believe Matt Nagy understands how to utilize the tight end,” wrote Ryan Clark of ESPN before he was fired. “He (Isaiah Likely) can have a young Travis Kelce effect for this offense.”
Clark’s comparison on ESPN was less about expecting Hall of Fame production and more about the role he could play. Kelce has built a Hall of Fame career by creating separation, reading defensive coverages, and becoming the QB’s most reliable target.
Clark believed Likely had the same athleticism and ability to offer Dart as he adjusts to the NFL.
Likely enters the season with high expectations after showing his receiving ability early in his career. In four years with Baltimore, He has recorded 135 receptions, 1,568 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns.
However, these stats do pale in comparison to what Kelce did in his first four seasons at the Chiefs. In 63 games, he recorded 22 touchdowns for 3,900 receiving yards.
If Likely wants to reach the next level, he must develop a good relationship with Jaxson Dart, as Kelce has with the Kansas City Chiefs’ legendary QB Patrick Mahomes.
Last season, the Giants were one of the worst teams in terms of receiving touchdowns, recording just 21 in 17 games. Likely could become that missing piece of the puzzle for the Giants, who take their passing game to the next level.
Comparing any TE to Kelce naturally raises expectations, but Clark’s point was about role, not individual production.
After his sudden departure, Ryan Clark recently encouraged his colleagues rather than discussing his own exit.
Ryan Clark breaks silence with heartfelt message after shocking ESPN layoff
Ryan Clark posted a message after reports revealed he was one of the on-air personalities that ESPN let go as part of its restructuring after the integration of NFL Network assets.
“Sending prayers and love to all those laid off today by ESPN,” Clark wrote via X. “So many of you have poured your life into that company, & I know how you’re feeling right now. My hope is as this door closes another opens for you all. God bless!”
Clark heard the decision during a break on an NFL live broadcast, which made his exit one of the most talked-about moments of the layoffs. He showed solidarity with colleagues who lost their jobs, many of whom had spent years building careers.
The 13-year NFL veteran joined ESPN in 2015 and became one of its recognizable football analysts, earning praise for his commentary and strong on-air presence.
What are your views on Isaiah Likely’s comparison with Travis Kelce? Let us know in the comments!
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