It took Tavares Gooden five years to find his best position at the University of Miami. It took him only 22 practices this summer to convince the Ravens he has a place in their future.
"If he's willing to work, study and really digest this defense ... I think this is a guy who at some point will be a difference-maker on our defense," said Eric DeCosta, the team's director of college scouting.
Gooden, 23, was a late bloomer at Miami, but he could turn out to be a third-round steal in the 2008 draft. It's not just his explosive burst, his ability to change direction and his aptitude in pass coverage that excite the Ravens.
It's also his passion, intelligence and pedigree that hint of something special.
How special?
At age 10, he found inspiration after the death of his mother, Sheila Gooden, from a heart ailment. He made a promise to her and then transformed himself from reluctant youth league football player to high school star in Miami.
Last season, after four years of trying to play outside linebacker for the Hurricanes, he was allowed to play middle linebacker. He led the team in tackles and was named the most valuable player on defense.
This summer, he has impressed Ravens coaches with his dedication and ability to learn defenses as a rookie.
"He's very conscientious about knowing where he's supposed to be," linebackers coach Greg Mattison said. "He very seldom makes mental mistakes. He's got a lot of pride. He does not like to have a coach say, 'That's not how we want it.' If you do, he's going to come back the next day to make sure he's got it right."
Gooden might have left the Hurricanes, but he has a lot of "the U" in and around him. Former Hurricanes Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Willis McGahee preceded him into the NFL - and to Baltimore.
Having already drawn on their experience and expertise, Gooden will draw more. He was scheduled to be Lewis' roommate once veterans checked into the team's Westminster training camp last night. At Miami, wearing Lewis' No. 52, Gooden was called "Baby Ray."
"I talked to everyone [here] from Miami," Gooden said. "It's a brotherhood."
Before the 2007 season, Gooden's NFL prospects were less than promising. In 14 starts at both outside linebacker positions, he had underachieved. A torn labrum in his shoulder canceled his 2005 season. He made just 41 tackles in 2006.
