Prescott Burgess, a sixth-round pick, was the second linebacker taken by the Ravens in the NFL draft in April, selected just two rounds after the organization chose Antwan Barnes out of Florida International. A two-year starter at outside linebacker for Michigan, Burgess impressed observers yesterday when he tackled running back Willis McGahee, forcing a fumble.
What did you see on that hit of McGahee?
The ball carrier was right there. I just had to make a name for myself and show them that I'm going to make my presence [known] out here.
How does it feel to make that kind of impression on your first day of training camp?
It feels real good because that's the whole reason that you're out here. You're trying to make this team, and you're trying to make this team better by showing what you can do out here. If they see a player, they're going to make sure that he's out on the field. That's what I'm trying to do.
How did you feel about not being drafted until the sixth round in April?
I was very upset that I went that late in the draft. I think I'm a good player, and some people were shocked that I went that late in the draft. But a great defense and great team drafted me. So I'm out here with them, and I'm going to try to make this team better.
Do you think teams overlooked you because of the presence of fellow linebacker David Harris, who was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round?
I got injured in the second half of the season. That took me down, but I was a player, and I will always be a player. I will go out here and give all that I have to win ballgames. I'm on a great team with a great group of guys. I've just got to go out here and fit in with them and put out what I can do with what they can do.