Alohi Gilman Makes Immediate Impact in Ravens Debut
Alohi Gilman’s arrival in Baltimore has already made waves, showcasing his talent in the Ravens’ secondary just days after a surprising mid-season trade.
Seamless Transition to a New Team
Joining a new team mid-season can be challenging for any player, but Gilman appears to have navigated the transition with remarkable ease. The Ravens acquired the safety from the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for edge rusher Odafe Oweh and a Day 3 draft pick, a deal intended to bolster a secondary plagued by injuries to key players like Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Humphrey.
From his very first practice, it was clear to the coaching staff that Gilman was a standout addition. “It kind of looked like the same to you,” remarked Ravens senior defensive assistant and secondary coach Chuck Pagano. His familiarity with a similar defensive system in Los Angeles facilitated a smooth integration into the Ravens’ setup.
Coaching Staff Impressed with Gilman’s Work Ethic
Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr expressed admiration for Gilman’s swift adaptation. “Beast man. He came right in on Wednesday morning, and that was the first time I saw him,” Orr noted, highlighting how Gilman took every rep in practice without hesitation. His ability to direct traffic on the field from day one signified his readiness to contribute immediately, making it evident to the coaches that his presence would enhance the lineup.
Strong Performance Amidst Team Struggles
In his first game donning the Ravens uniform, Gilman did not disappoint. He recorded seven tackles during a challenging 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, earning the team’s highest Pro Football Focus tackling grade of 83.3, along with a commendable run defense grade of 75.8. His performance underscores the potential synergy he can create alongside Hamilton, further solidifying the secondary.
As the Ravens look to rebound from a rocky start to the season, Gilman’s contributions will be pivotal. His ability to perform at a high level with little preparation time speaks volumes about his readiness and determination.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Ravens’ defense will evolve with Gilman in the mix, as they aim to turn their season around and regain their competitive edge.
