Following the release of Earl Thomas from the Baltimore Ravens, questions began of what is next for Baltimore? Or should we say who is next? In Baltimore or should we say the University of Texas at Baltimore, they have another former Longhorn at safety they could play. DeShon Elliott was drafted late in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Ravens in the sixth round. The former All-American safety could now find himself in a larger role in 2020.
Baltimore Ravens passing defensive coordinator Chris Hewitt spoke about Elliott recently.
“He’s definitely a confident young man – sometimes too confident,” Hewitt said. “He’s just been that kind of kid. He’s an energy bunny. He comes in the building and he’s just ready to go. When he gets out on the field, he brings the energy to the rest of the defense. He’s just one of those guys. I love the way that he plays.”
Elliott is set to become the starter for the Ravens defense at safety. The biggest question with Elliott isn’t his ability but staying healthy. After all the best ability is availability. DeShon played in just six games for the Ravens in a reserve role and missed all of his rookie season after being placed on the injured reserve list.
One player who thinks DeShon will do well in a larger role is Chuck Clark. Clark was the player who got into an altercation with Thomas. When discussing Elliott, Clark spoke about how well they mesh. They have great communication, which is something that was clearly lacking between Clark and Thomas.
It won’t be easy replacing a multi-time All-Pro safety like Earl Thomas. Elliott has the confidence to get the job done, it is just a matter of the in-game reps. Given how the Baltimore Ravens operate, they have the structure around them for DeShon Elliott to succeed.