Ravens Select Cornerback T.J. Tampa in Round 4

April 27, 2024, 7:30 p.m. Sports

The Baltimore Ravens made a significant move in the fourth round of the NFL draft, selecting cornerback T.J. Tampa with the 131st overall pick. Tampa, who played his college football at Miami, brings a unique skill set to the Ravens' secondary and has the potential to make an immediate impact on the team.

Tampa, standing at 6'1" and weighing in at 195 pounds, is known for his physicality and strength in coverage. He excels at press coverage and has a knack for disrupting the timing of opposing receivers. His ability to play tight coverage and make plays on the ball was a major factor in the Ravens' decision to draft him.

One of Tampa's biggest strengths is his speed and agility. He has the quickness to stick with speedy receivers and the fluidity to change direction on a dime. His athleticism allows him to recover quickly if he is beaten off the line of scrimmage, making him a valuable asset in the passing game.

In addition to his coverage skills, Tampa is also a willing and effective tackler. He isn't afraid to come up and support the run, and his physicality allows him to make plays in the open field. His tackling ability adds another dimension to his game and makes him a well-rounded defensive back.

The Ravens' secondary was already one of the best in the league, with Pro Bowl cornerback Marlon Humphrey leading the way. Adding Tampa to the mix gives the Ravens even more depth and talent at the position. He will compete for playing time with veteran corners like Marcus Peters and Jimmy Smith, but his skill set suggests that he could carve out a significant role in the defense.

Tampa will also benefit from the guidance of defensive coordinator Don "Wink" Martindale. Martindale is known for his aggressive defensive schemes and his ability to get the most out of his players. He will surely find a way to maximize Tampa's potential and put him in a position to succeed.

Overall, the selection of T.J. Tampa in the fourth round of the draft is a shrewd move by the Ravens. He fills a need in the secondary and brings a unique skill set to the team. With his combination of size, speed, and physicality, Tampa has the potential to be a difference-maker for the Ravens in the upcoming season. Fans should be excited to see him take the field and contribute to what is already a formidable defense.