Photo: goccusports.com

Back in 2018, Costal Carolina tight end Isaiah Likely left Everett High School as one of the best players in recent memory, which is obviously a big statement when coming out of that program.

Likely was a huge part of the ridiculous Crimson Tide offense that was the state’s top-rated unit, winning the Division I Super Bowl. At that time, Everett won 19-consecutive games and the title gave Everett back-to-back championships.

Once going to Costal, Likely moved to tight end and immediately had an impact, playing 12 games his freshman year and he tied for the team lead with five touchdown catches. Over the next several years, Likely continued to showcase his talent and even helped CC gain national relevance. The list of his accolades from his entire career is remarkable after switching from wide receiver.

This week, Likely was in Indianapolis for the NFL Combine. He met with the media and was asked why he thought his game could translate to the NFL right away. Let’s just say he surely doesn’t lack confidence.

“Just being one of the most versatile players in this draft,” he said. “Coastal Carolina practically put me everywhere. Whether it was in the slot, whether it was out wide or even in-line, I think it just showed my versatility at the next level is something you can’t prepare for.

“Just bringing that to the NFL, already having a jump start on most of the tight ends, that’s just something I pride myself on.”

The tight end position is arguably the most athletic it’s ever been, which is perfect for Likely as an extremely athletic guy himself. “I feel like the tight end hybrid is definitely a popular role that’s come about in the NFL with Travis Kelce and even Kyle Pitts and Darren Waller,” Likely added. “That’s just something coaches starting to take advantage of because for defenses, it’s hard to prepare.

“You can’t just have any DB or linebacker in the game when you have an athletic tight end.”

What about blocking?

“I’m fine with it,” said Likely. “I mean, I love football. I’ve been playing since I was four years old. Any time you need me, I’m ready. At the end of the day, they’re trying to stop you from feeding your family. That’s how I approach it.”

During his availability, Likely was asked if he feels like he’s underrated.

“I wouldn’t say underrated, I’m definitely getting some of the limelight I deserve,” he said. “Just having grown and developed over the years at Costal Carolina.”

During his days at Everett, Likely was widely considered to be a fantastic route runner and still believes he’s one of the best, if not the best receiving tight end in the entire draft class.

“I consider myself the best route running tight end and I know I have the best hands in this draft,” Likely said emphatically.

Likely did not run a 40-yard dash this week, that will probably come at Pro Day. He did, however, measure in at 6’4, 245 and had a great showing in the on-field drills. A 4.57 shuttle and a 36” vertical will surely help his draft stock even more too.

That’s all well and good, but if there was a measurement for confidence and swagger, Likely is a guy everyone should want on their roster in April and he may have continued skyrocketing up draft boards this week.