Kruger's potential reminds some Ravens fans of former linebacker Dan Cody, a talented player out of Oklahoma chosen by the organization in the second round of the 2005 draft. But Cody never lived up to his potential because of debilitating injuries and was released before last season.
But Kruger is a little more polished than Cody and has played just two years of college football, which means he doesn't have the wear-and-tear that other players might. Then again, Kruger might not have the experience and savvy that his peers have, but defensive line coach Clarence Brooks does not seem worried.
"There's arguments on both sides," Brooks said. "For someone like him, we're just happy to have him. We're happy he was available where he was. Everybody liked what they saw in the evaluation of him. We're just happy we have him and have an opportunity to mold and turn the guy into a very productive player on this defense."
Much has been made about Kruger being the victim of a stabbing during a fight outside a party after the 2008 season and losing a kidney as a child as a result of a car accident. But Kruger said a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had a profound effect on him.
Mowing lawns, participating in fundraisers and sharing the Bible with residents of Independence, Mo., helped Kruger consider what remained outside football.
"I think it's given me a perspective on life," he said. "Some people choose different ways to live their lives, and when you're out there, you see how they live, see what they're all about, see how their experiences shaped them. It's been a huge help, and the spirituality part of it is something that I reflect on all the time. My commitment to God and how that affects me and the decisions I make."
That influence on his character was evident during practice as Kruger did not showboat or get involved in the antics that one might see from a highly drafted rookie. Kruger simply completed his work, and that suited his veteran teammates just fine.
"My impression is that he doesn't say much and that's a good thing," defensive end Trevor Pryce said. "Quiet rookies are good. Loudmouth rookies are bad. He just works hard and tries to get better. So I have a good impression of him."
Note: : First-round draft pick Michael Oher remained unsigned and in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday. Rookies are required to report to Westminster today for Tuesday's first practice at 8:45 a.m.
Paul Kruger
Position: Defensive end-outside linebacker
College: Utah
Drafted: Second round, 57th overall
Height: 6 feet 4 Weight: 265 pounds
Born: Feb. 15, 1986
Hometown: Orem, Utah
Of note: Switched from quarterback to defensive end after two-year church mission. ... At Utah, his younger brother, Dave, joined him on the defensive line. ... Father, Paul, played football at Oregon State, and mother, Jennifer, was a member of the track and field team.
