In his first significant game action, Marlon Humphrey looked NFL-ready.
The Ravens finally got an extended look at their first-round draft pick, who’d played just six snaps in the previous three games because of nagging injuries. That in itself was a victory.
Better still, Humphrey appeared ready to contribute as the primary backup to starting cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Brandon Carr.
The New Orleans Saints didn’t challenge Humphrey early, but once they did, he more than held his own in coverage. He broke up one pass downfield and also committed one interference penalty. But he really shined in run support, forcing a fumble with a ferocious hit late in the first quarter and making another tackle near the line of scrimmage just before halftime.
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Those plays fit his reputation as a big, naturally aggressive corner.
Because of that pressing style, Humphrey will probably get beat on the occasional deep ball when he starts lining up against the league’s elite. But he’ll also be a lot of fun to watch.