In 2005, after making his mark covering kicks, he was traded to the Bears for a player and a draft pick.
In 83 career NFL games, Ayanbadejo has made three starts. Here, he hopes to supply depth as a reserve linebacker on one of the league's top units. He performed admirably in the preseason opener against the New England Patriots, when injuries forced him to play defense without the benefit of practice snaps.
"He flies around and makes plays," Ryan said. "We love the way he runs around and hits people. That's a good combination. I dont know if I'd say he's been a pleasant surprise, but I was surprised a little bit by how effective he was out there."
Still, the Ravens are counting on his impact blocking for and covering kicks. The team's punt and kick return teams ranked in the NFL's top 10 last season. But the cover teams were in the bottom third of the league. With an offense that figures to struggle early, field position will be important.
"He's a linebacker who runs like a receiver, and he's smart and he's physical," new special teams coach Jerry Rosburg said.
The addition of Ayanbadejo has already produced benefits. He speaks up in meetings and at practice, teaching younger players.
"He's a very cerebral player. He understands schemes. He understands fits. He understands technique, and he really works at his craft. He studies it and tries to do the little things at a very high level," Rosburg said.
Ayanbadejo had to make one other transition to Baltimore in training camp.
"It was hard to go from a training camp where everyone was screaming, 'Brendon, Brendon,' to here, where everyone is like, 'Hey, 51, 51 ...' " he said.
If Ayanbadejo plays up to his reputation, it won't take long for Baltimore to learn his name.
