Competition often reveals more about a player than success ever could. The Baltimore Ravens created exactly that situation when they signed veteran kicker Jake Moody following Tyler Loop's uneven preseason. Rather than retreat from the challenge, Loop embraced it, and special teams coordinator Anthony Levine Sr. took notice.
Speaking with reporters this week, Levine explained that he personally called Loop to inform him that Baltimore was bringing in another kicker. The rookie's response left a positive impression.
"I called him, I talked to him and I told him what was going on, that we were bringing someone in. And he already knew, but what he did was embrace it. He said, 'Coach, I am ready for it. I understand what is going on, and I am going to accept
this challenge.' That is what he is doing. He is embracing it."
The Ravens have consistently maintained confidence in Loop despite his struggles in preseason games. Head coach Jesse Minter recently indicated that Loop remains on track to open the season as Baltimore's kicker, but the organization still felt additional competition was necessary.
Levine made it clear that competition is not viewed as punishment. Instead, it is part of the evaluation process, and something the Ravens believe brings out the best in players.
"What we all know is competition brings out the best of everybody, so, when it comes to competition, what we are going to do is always do what is best for the team."
More importantly for Baltimore, Loop appears to understand the situation. Rather than allowing outside pressure to become a distraction, he has continued working while welcoming the challenge presented by Moody.
For a rookie trying to establish himself in one of the NFL's most pressure-filled jobs, that mindset may be just as important as the next kick. We'll have to wait and see how things unfold as we continue to move forward.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Anthony Levine is encouraged by Tyler Loop’s response to competition
