NEW YORK (AP) — John Harbaugh inspires such devotion that even if fullback Patrick Ricard weren’t a starter, he’d gladly serve as a water boy for his new team.
This connection makes transitions smoother for players moving forward.
Ricard is one of several former Baltimore Ravens joining the New York Giants. He and tight end Isaiah Likely sealed their contracts on Thursday, while defensive back Ar’Darius Washington and All-Pro punter Jordan Stout secured agreements earlier this week as the NFL’s free agency kicked off.
“The moment I learned he landed the job here, my interest was piqued,” Ricard stated during a video call with reporters. “When he expressed interest in bringing me in, I was all in. I was ready to sign immediately and get to work.”
The Ravens saw significant changes after transitioning to Pittsburgh. Likely, meanwhile, had a game-winning touchdown disrupted by a video review. Had it stood firm, he commented, “I might still be in Baltimore” due to the possibility that Harbaugh would have retained his position.
Moving on from that alternate reality, Likely attributes the compelling culture fostered by Harbaugh as a key reason many players desire to continue under the guidance of the 63-year-old Super Bowl-winning coach.
“Under Harbaugh, the core message was about discipline and giving your utmost effort over a full 60 minutes while maintaining a positive mindset heading into every game,” stated Likely, who signed a three-year deal worth $40 million. “That mindset is essential when you have someone like Harbaugh leading the organization.”
Harbaugh and Joe Schoen are also scouting talents from Pittsburgh, not solely Baltimore. Recently, the Giants reached an agreement with former Steelers receiver Calvin Austin on a $4.5 million contract for the upcoming season, as confirmed by agent Drew Rosenhaus.
Austin, turning 27 next season, along with Likely, represents efforts to fill the gap left by Wan’Dale Robinson, who has moved on to become the Titans’ offensive coordinator. Last season, Austin made 31 receptions for 372 yards and three touchdowns while playing for the Steelers.
Robinson made headlines last season by becoming just the third player 5-foot-8 or shorter since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger to surpass 1,000 receiving yards. In contrast, Likely stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 245 pounds, yet he seems likely to line up in the slot on the field.
This is a role Likely has handled well under both Harbaugh and Todd Monken at the Ravens, and he feels right at home in that position.
“In the slot, the game unfolds right in front of you,” said Likely. “I enjoy the flexibility it provides, moving around like a chess piece.”
Wherever Likely lines up, he remains a reliable target for quarterback Jaxson Dart, entering his second professional season. The two have been in touch since uniting as teammates, and Dart may have played a pivotal role in Likely’s decision to join the Giants.
“He’s the reason I’m here,” Likely joked. “I can’t wait to get on the field with him. You can clearly see his drive to win. He’s committed to doing whatever it takes to secure a victory.”
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