Ravens cornerback Rashaan Melvin impresses in Ravens debut

Cornerback Rashaan Melvin was pressed into action on Sunday during Baltimore's 20-12 win over Jacksonville.

It was the first time since joining the Ravens that he was active, though it wasn't expected for him to play. But when Asa Jackson suffered a knee injury, which has ended his season, Melvin was asked to go in and finish the game. And he didn't disappoint.

Melvin recorded a tackle for a loss and nearly came down with an interception. Ruled incomplete on the field, coach John Harbaugh challenged the play, though it was upheld. It was still a nice break on the ball, with Melvin showing great ball skills and anticipation.

"Melvin came in there and did a great job and played really well and was excited to get out and get a chance," Harbaugh told reporters following the game. "Like ‘Siz' [Terrell Suggs] said, the next guy has to step up, and they will. This is a team sport, and our guys have done a good job with that so far, and they'll keep doing it."

Melvin initially signed with the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2013. He was with Miami's practice squad this year when the Ravens signed him to their 53-man roster after Jimmy Smith was placed on season-ending injured reserve with a Lisfranc injury.

After waiting for an opportunity for most of two seasons, Melvin finally got one. Now his chance at an increased role has significantly increased moving forward.

"I've been sitting there for a while watching," Melvin said. "I believe in myself. I was happy that the coaches allowed me to have an opportunity to go out there and show what I could do and contribute to the team. I just took it in stride. I'm blessed and I'm a confident guy. There was no pressure, it was just great."