The old adage “iron sharpens iron” is epitomized by the training camp interactions between two young Baltimore Ravens stars, tight end Isaiah Likely and safety Kyle Hamilton. Both players, who are entering their third seasons in the NFL, frequently clash due to their overlapping roles and supreme versatility on their respective sides of the ball.
During training camp, these matchups are anything but trivial, serving as a cornerstone of their offseason development. Likely shared with reporters how the dynamics of their competition have evolved since their rookie years. “In our rookie years, we would go head to head in seven straight one-on-ones daily,” he explained. “Now, it’s more focused. Each encounter could be the only one of the day, so there’s added pressure not to be the subject of locker room banter.”
The friendly rivalry pushes both players to refine their techniques and learn from each encounter, whether they win or lose the rep. Likely noted, “Even today, Kyle and I spent time post-practice to drill down on specific techniques.”
Last season was transformative for both athletes but in distinct ways. Hamilton, selected 14th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, established himself as one of the top safeties in the league. The Notre Dame alumnus notched an impressive roster of statistics, including 81 total tackles, 10 for loss, three sacks, and four interceptions, one returned for a touchdown. His stellar performance earned him an All-Pro selection.
Likely’s season highlights, while not as pronounced, were crucial nonetheless. He came into his own when primary tight end Mark Andrews was injured late in the season, catching six touchdown passes in as many games. Now with Andrews back to full health, he and Likely are poised to be one of the league’s premier tight end duos, with Likely typically aligning closer to the offensive line.
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In related Ravens news, Derrick Henry continues to live up to his reputation, a former coach attempted to lure away a Ravens defensive end, and the team recently provided an injury report on three rookies. Additionally, the late Jacoby Jones was honored at training camp, and a cornerback was carted off the field with an injury during a session.