The Baltimore Ravens have made many moves in their secondary in order ensure that the group has plenty of depth and many different contributors that can make an impact when called upon at both cornerback and safety. One of those players is safety Tony Jefferson II, who had a strong end to the 2021 season after being brought back by the team in the middle of the year.
Baltimore’s pass game coordinator and secondary coach Chris Hewitt spoke to the media after one of the Ravens’ mandatory minicamp practices, and was asked about what he’s seen from the veteran safety. Hewitt said that Jefferson hasn’t missed a step, and he’s happy that the former Oklahoma star is back in Baltimore.
“Tony [Jefferson II] hasn’t missed a step. Once he got back here and he was coming off the ACL [injury], he has no lingering effects from it. He looks like the Tony Jefferson that we signed whatever amount of years ago … What was that, 2017, or whatever it was? He’s still young and spry. I don’t believe – he might have just turned 30, I think. But, Tony brings a lot of energy and just like what you talk about, a lot of experience. He’s a leader, and he brings all the other guys together. [He] talks to anybody on the team, including the kicker. _(laughter)So, I’m really happy with Tony being here and we’ll see what happens going forward. But, I love having Tony around.”
Jefferson played in four games with the Ravens in 2021, but impressed in a big way. He finished with 17 tackles and one sack while also providing great run support and being solid in coverage. He also spent 2017-2019 with the team after signing a four-year contract during the 2017 offseason.
The veteran will be relied upon to be quality depth at the safety position, as well as one of the leaders on the team. He was able to earn himself another deal in Baltimore with his play in 2021, and hopefully he can build upon that during this upcoming year.