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The buzz of minicamp in Owings Mills, Maryland, has some sophomore’s avoiding the dreaded year two slump. First up, tight end Mark Andrews.
Tight end Mark Andrews was among the practice standouts. Night and day compared to how he looked at this time last season.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) June 11, 2019
This time last season, The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec noted he was uncertain whether or not Andrews would contribute as a rookie. Now, the sophomore is among the best on the field for minicamp.
Speed. Confidence. Strength. Honestly, last year during the summer, he didn't do much at all and some of us in media were questioning whether he'd be a contributor as a rookie. He showed us. But looks even better this year.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) June 11, 2019
By seasons’ end, Andrews demonstrated his ability to make plays and become Lamar Jackson’s most consistent target. Andrews caught 13 of 18 targets for 308 yards and one touchdown. He only improved as the season wore on, and he’s coming into year two as a standout performer. This could be an exciting season for the tandem Andrews and Jackson.
After Andrews balled out yesterday, a defensive prospect shined their light by intercepting Robert Griffin III today. NFL, meet DeShon Elliott.
Loading... #RavensFlock pic.twitter.com/QKh1g3Clsl
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) June 12, 2019
Ravens second-year safety DeShon Elliott has a knack for being around the ball and picked off another pass Wednesday. Baltimore has a loaded secondary, but it looks like Ravens are going to need to find a way to get Elliott on the field this season.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) June 12, 2019
Many were excited about drafting DeShon Elliott. His speed and toughness on the gridiron exemplified ‘Play Like A Raven.’ His tenacity in the preseason, not wanting to get off the field when he was a bit banged up showed just how badly he wanted to go to battle. In the end, he suffered a broken forearm and watched the entire 2018-19 season, without stepping onto the football field.
Wanna ball so bad.
— DeShon Elliott (@OfficialShon_4) September 23, 2018
Now, Elliott’s back on the field, balling, and defensive coordinator Don ‘Wink’ Martindale is taking notice.
Wink Martindale on 2nd-year safety @OfficialShon_4: "I know we have two really good safeties right now, but we’ll find spots for the good football players."
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) June 12, 2019
DeShon Elliott has been one of the biggest standouts. Could see Ravens using he and Earl in obvious passing situations. https://t.co/S4DRjhNtgD
Elliott’s always been on my radar and I very much look forward to his performance come training camp and beyond.