The Baltimore Ravens began their 2014 NFL season last night as they took on the San Francisco 49ers in a rematch of Super Bowl 47. Although the result is meaningless due to the fact it is a preseason game, the Ravens torched the 49ers 23-3.
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Among the storylines being extrapolated from the game is linebacker CJ Mosley’s impressive debut for the Ravens. Mosley, the former Alabama star, Butkus award winner, and 2013 SEC defensive player of the year, was selected 17th overall by the Ravens in this year’s NFL draft.
Mosley was named a starter on the Ravens’ initial depth chart, and last night’s performance gives fans a glimpse as to why he won that spot.
C.J. Mosley played 24 snaps, tying for most on Ravens' defense with Kapron Lewis-Moore. Mosley had five tackles, three solos, one sack
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 8, 2014
Mosley’s impact was evident from the start, and he seems poised to have a stellar rookie season for the Ravens. In fact, Mosley told the Baltimore Sun that one of his goals is to win the NFL defensive rookie of the year award:
"That is one of my goals, but that’s just a personal goal. My main goal is to help this team get back to the Super Bowl.I’m not taking nothing for granted. I’m an even-keel kind of guy. I’m just making my mark. We’ve been practicing for a long time. I finally got the first preseason game out of the way. I kind of got a chance to feel the speed, and how I needed to get downhill or certain things I need to do to make plays and just get my body right and stack plays."
Mosley’s impressive debut and post game demeanor should have Ravens fans excited for this young man’s prospects as the season gets underway in a few short weeks.