*BR.com wants to use the Hey Rookie! blog as a way to let every rookie on the roster tell a little bit about their story. We'll have different voices speaking to you throughout the season. *
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*Running back Allen Patrick, the Ravens' last draft pick and one of five players from the University of Oklahoma in the locker room, checks in with his thoughts as the preseason closes. *
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I've come a long was since my first day here. I really think I've improved tremendously after coming in and really not knowing anything. I had to build confidence in myself to get a little swagger out there. You need that to perform and compete.
Coming in, you're nervous being a around so many new guys and big names. You have to gain their trust, too, so they have confidence in your abilities. It's like you feel like you're a freshman all over again.
But I've had fun, so camp seemed pretty smooth. Now, guys know me as not just some draft pick. They see what I can do on the field. I feel like I've done pretty well, and I'll hopefully get some opportunities this week. The biggest thing I want to show is my special teams ability. Being able to contribute on special teams will help a lot to make this roster. I'm a multi-position guy. I used to play DB [defensive back], so I think that helps.
We've got the final cuts this Saturday, and I try not to think about it. For the most part, I just pray about it and let things fall how they're supposed to. I'm just waiting to see what happens.
I talk a lot to my mom. She's always been a big part of my life, so I think I can talk to her about anything. She's down in South Carolina. Conway. So, I'll call her up and see what she has to say about things. My mom always has a positive mindset and always tries to keep me going in the right direction.
It's been fun seeing some of my old teammates and guys I went to college with play in this league. I saw my guy Adrian Peterson when we played the Vikings. And, there are so many OU players in this locker room. When the Vikings came here, we went out to the field and chopped it up a little bit after the game. Just seeing what was going on with everybody.
I love having the Oklahoma guys here. It gives you a little more leverage and helps you feel more comfortable because you've shared some of the same experiences and been through the same things. It's good to have them take you under their wings and show you the ins and outs.
Now, we're back home. The first game at M&T Bank Stadium was one of the best feelings you could ever have. A lot of people want that opportunity, but most don't get it. I really enjoyed that moment running out of the tunnel. I tried to make it last as long as I could.
I hope the fans are still loud when we play the Falcons. I'm going to try to make plays and do it for the team and the fans.
- Allen
