PLEASE NOTE: The opinions, analysis and/or speculation expressed on BaltimoreRavens.com represent those of individual authors, and unless quoted or clearly labeled as such, do not represent the opinions or policies of the Baltimore Ravens' organization, front office staff, coaches and executives. Authors' views are formulated independently from any inside knowledge and/or conversations with Ravens officials, including the coaches and scouts, unless otherwise noted.
Peter King, SI.com’s venerable NFL scribe, called Ed Reed’s move to the physically unable to perform list the most underrated roster move of last weekend’s final cut.
Tom Zbikowski is showing that the Ravens should still be in good hands, but that notion seems to be unnoticed by King, which could mean he will also be overlooked by future opponents.
“[Teams] sleep on me, but I’ve allowed them to,” Zbikowski said.
“Now I’m where I need to be. That’s the process of being a professional. I think I’ve matured a little and adjusted all my weaknesses and am making them my strengths.”
Zbikowski made his intentions known at training camp, when he reported at around 200 pounds, down from 210, after an offseason regimen of plyometrics and boxing left him quicker and leaner.
Then he proved he can be a playmaker in the Ravens’ defensive backfield during the preseason, tying for fourth on the team with 10 tackles, notching a sack and forcing a fumble.
Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh has said that Zbikowski “looks really quick” and “is covering a lot of ground for us.”
Can he do it while Reed’s hip recovers, which could last six games or the entire season?
As the underrated safety nears Baltimore’s 2010 season opener against the New York Jets as a definite starter, he knows he will be tested.
“I’m just going to keep doing what I’m paid to do, and that’s play football,” he said.
“Whether Ed comes back or not, I’m going to continue to prepare like I’m a starter. You have to be ready to go at any time.”
