Hey there Fitzgerald Toussaint. It's so nice to see you.
Not many folks knew much about the undrafted rookie running back out of Michigan. He got some late carries in Baltimore's first preseason game against San Francisco, toting the ball four times for 20 yards. But not much was known about what he could do in terms of getting some extended game action.
During Thursday's 22-13 preseason win over New Orleans, Toussaint broke out and proved he's worthy of at least a practice squad spot in Baltimore. He carried the ball 17 times for 103 yards, weaving his way through Saints defenders at times.
It's highly unlikely the Ravens carry him on the 53-man roster. The only possible way he makes the team is if the Ravens decide that they can go without Justin Forsett. That doesn't seem probable, at least at this time.
What was impressive about Toussaint was his vision. His ability to extend plays and find holes to run through shows that he's a natural at the position. A few times, Toussaint took negative plays and turned them into two-yard gains. Plus, the Gary Kubiak offensive scheme has been known to plug in no-name guys that then blow up. Arian Foster is a perfect example. An undrafted running back out of Tennessee, Foster has since turned into one of the best running backs in the NFL.
That's not to say Toussaint is the next Foster. But the system is a great fit for running backs, regardless of where a team finds them. And Toussaint, albeit against a bunch of Saints backups that likely won't be a part of the organization past Saturday, looked very comfortable running in the zone blocking scheme. Assuming he's cut Saturday, the Ravens better hope he clears waivers. He'd be a perfect practice squad addition in Baltimore.
But the film he put out there Thursday night may be enough for a team in need of a running back to take a chance on him.
The Ravens are stacked at running back right now. Ray Rice, Bernard Pierce, Justin Forsett and Lorenzo Taliaferro round out a talented group. Toussaint has all of a sudden become a pleasant surprise. But it may not be enough given the numbers game of the NFL.