Former Elon Wide Receiver Aaron Mellette was once projected as a long shot to make the Baltimore Ravens opening day roster. However, with the regular season just around, Mellette looks to prove to the doubters that he can play in the big leagues.
Mellette's first two career receptions were both touchdowns. The first coming midway through the fourth quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a deep ball thrown by Tyrod Taylor. The other came the following week against the Atlanta Falcons on another deep ball from Taylor.
His performance quickly caught the eyes of the Ravens coaching staff, including Offensive Coordinator Jim Caldwell, who moved Mellette up the depth chart, giving him first team reps with Quarterback Joe Flacco and receivers Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones.
Flacco was impressed with Mellette's explosiveness and ability to catch the ball.
"[Aaron's] been impressive," says Flacco. "Hopefully he can keep on improving and we can get him out there and use him a little bit."
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Even if he makes the team, Mellette understands he is not guaranteed any playing time. However, he hopes to contribute his talents in any way he can, whether on offense, special teams, or both.
"I don't care about doing both," responded Mellette. "I had to do it at Elon. (Whatever) I have to do to make the 53-man roster."
Mellette's first training camp has been a memorable one, and he has learned a lot since joining the Ravens in late April. During the second week of camp, Head Coach John Harbaugh kicked Mellette off the practice field for acting "lazy." But Mellette quickly rebounded and had a great week of practice and followed it up with his second touchdown reception.
"I just needed to mentally get myself where I needed to be, and just go out there and perform," he said.
Mellette knows that not everyone gets to play in the NFL, and regardless of what happens this season, he plans to cherish every moment of it.