It’s a big deal whenever an undrafted free agent makes the 53-man roster.
When the team’s general manager himself delivers the news, in person, to that UDFA, it’s an even bigger deal.
On Friday, Ravens safety Beau Brade told reporters that Ravens GM Eric DeCosta approached him directly after Monday’s practice and said to him that he made the team.
Brade told the media that DeCosta told him, “You’ve had a pretty good preseason,” and then quickly added, “Congratulations, you’ve made the 53-man roster.”
The rookie then thanked and hugged DeCosta. Once he got home, the Clarksville, Maryland native immediately told his parents, and he said they cried tears of joy.
“Dreams come true, but you gotta put the work in,” said Brade, who was a star at River Hill high school, and then later the University of Maryland.
He grew up a Ravens fan, dreaming of the opportunity to someday play for the club.
Now, his opportunity has arrived.
Coach John Harbaugh said he thinks it’s “pretty cool ” that Brade is a local school. He then added that he appreciates the Terps and the other local schools.
“He did it the hard way, he earned it,” Harbaugh said of Brade making the final cut.
“He made plays. I think he’s going to do very well.”