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Cornerback Cary Williams was one of the stars of last Thursday's preseason opener, posting three total tackles, three passes defensed, and an interception.
That performance has helped move him up on the Ravens' depth chart.
In the two full-squad practices since the win over the Panthers, Williams has been lining up with the first-team, where he's played opposite Fabian Washington at cornerback with Chris Carr still sidelined with a hamstring injury.
The two-year veteran had a rough start to camp, but thanks to some injuries and his strong play of late, he's back in the mix for some playing time.
"I'm my biggest critic. I'm never settling," Williams said. "I realize I played pretty well against the Carolina Panthers, but I always want to progress. I never want to stay on the same level. I want to take the next step and move on and continue to get better each day."
What's been the difference in his play that's helped him get back on track?
"I think I've been showing discipline," he says. "I think I've been showing a more focused Cary Williams. That's about it, just going out there and playing and showing my athleticism."
It's been a long road for Williams to get to this point.
He was suspended twice during his time at Fordham College, then was kicked off the team in 2004. He transferred to Division II Washburn University, where he excelled at corner and as a kickoff returner.
Williams was drafted by the Titans in the seventh-round in 2008, and spent two seasons with Tennessee, appearing in just five games. He signed with the Ravens late last season and appeared in five games with Baltimore down the stretch (starting one), posting 13 tackles from scrimmage.
Now, he's on the field with the Ravens' first-team, and is in the same huddle as Ray Lewis.
That part Williams is still getting used to.
"I come in and I see Ray, [and I say] 'I'm out here with Ray Lewis,'" Williams said. "Everybody does it. But to a degree, you've got to hold your own. Ray's going to hold his own, and he expects nothing but the best from you.
"You don't want to let your teammates down, you don't want to let your coaches down, or your university down for that matter. So I just want to go out there and put my best foot forward, and continue to progress and get better."
