Rookie FS Matt Elam Off To Fast Start With Ravens

Discussion in 'Baltimore Ravens' started by SRW, May 5, 2013.

  1. SRW

    SRW Ex-World's Worst Site Admin

    Intercepting passes and barking out defensive signals, Ravens rookie safety Matt Elam delivered as advertised during a rookie minicamp that concluded Sunday.

    The first-round draft pick lined up at free safety, playing with an obvious confidence.

    "It went well," Elam said. "I got better every day. I'm improving. I'm very comfortable and very smooth out there. It felt great. I'm very excited to be with the best and start working with the vets. "

    A consensus All-American selection from the University of Florida, the 5-foot-10, 210-pound Elam was the final pick of the first round after recording 176 tackles, 24 for losses, five sacks, six interceptions and two forced fumbles in three seasons for the Gators.

    What impressed Ravens coach John Harbaugh about Elam was how he took charge in the secondary and is quickly becoming knowledgeable about the defensive scheme.

    "Matt really picked things up quickly, same for [second-round inside linebacker] Arthur [Brown]," Harbaugh said. "He really did a nice job of communicating in the back end which isn't usual for a rookie. Most rookie defensive backs all defensive players have a tough time with the communication part because they're not confident enough to make the calls.

    "He's smart. He picked it up quickly. He jumped back there quickly and made the calls with force. He was very forceful back there and played fast. He looked good."

    Source: Baltimore Sun
     
  2. Agent Zero

    Agent Zero I rode the short bus

    This kid is gonna flourish in Baltimore. I really wish Dallas would of taken him.. smh
     
  3. mtzninersfan

    mtzninersfan 1st Stringer

    Yes he seemed to be one of the top safeties. A lot of 49er fans wanted him over Reid, I guess we'll see how it pans out.
     
  4. CStevenson13

    CStevenson13 1st Stringer

    I think the way we use the SS in Baltimore is suited for him perfectly. They wont put to much on his plate, just let him play his game...run support, blitz, underneath coverage, etc. He offers so much more versatility because he can play the slot and get to spots on the field a whole lot quicker then Pollard. Gotta just make sure he's taking the proper angles, at his height it's gonna be key.