Old school football players still have a place in the modern-day NFL.
While the game has changed drastically throughout the years, there are still players who mimic those from yesteryear and the Ravens have been fortunate to find them.
Kelly Gregg, Jarret Johnson just to name a few, all quietly made names for themselves in Baltimore for their blue-collar work ethic.
The 2016 Ravens certainly have several players that fit that mold, particularly Anthony Levine, Sr.
His name isn’t sexy and you more than likely wouldn’t know him if you’ve tripped over him. He could however, yield one of the most important roles on the roster this upcoming season.
The versatility he provides the Ravens is a highly desirable quality. Whether it’s lining up at safety, linebacker or playing special teams, the 5th year player appears to have found a home on Dean Pees’ defense.
“I just take pride in my hard work,” said Levine Sr. following practice on Monday. “I just go out there, and I work hard. I work hard every day.
“That is mostly what I take pride in. I don’t take pride in how many positions I can play; I just take pride in being able to go out there and work hard.”
The former Green Bay Packer practice squad player has seen his reps increase at safety this preseason due to injuries at the position. The increased playing time has translated into positive results. Levine has been a playmaker with two interceptions in his past two preseason games.
“It is just hard work – coming out here every day, working hard, taking coaching,” explained Levine Sr. when asked about taking advantage of turnover opportunities. “I feel like I’m getting better every year, so that is all I’m doing – just working hard and taking to coaching.”
As the week presses on and roster cuts are taking place, Levine Sr. has carved out a role on defense but acknowledges how being a bubble player is stressful.
“This week is stressful,” recalled Levine Sr. “It gets stressful when you are that guy that is on the bubble, on the outside looking in.
“You are just trying to do whatever you can to catch the coaches’ eyes. You are trying to go out there and make all the plays. It is tough; it is a stressful week.”
Relax for a moment Anthony.
You’ve earned it with that old-school style.
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