National Football League

Ravens' Newsome wants to see more out of Matt Elam, Arthur Brown

Published May. 13, 2015 1:35 p.m. ET

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Ozzie Newsome has been getting strong reviews for his work in last month's draft, but he readily admits that his first two picks in 2013 haven't come close to living up to expectations so far.

Safety Matt Elam, drafted 32nd overall two years ago out of Florida, lost his starting job last season after limited on-field production. He registered 50 tackles with no interceptions and a team-high 18 missed tackles.

He's fared better than the man selected with Baltimore's next pick, second-rounder Arthur Brown. Brown barely saw the field last season, active for just four games. 

"I think it's readily known that we have not been satisfied with the way he's played thus far,” Newsome said of Elam during a conference call with season-ticket holders per The Baltimore Sun. "And I don't think Matt has been satisfied with the way he’s played thus far."

For his part, a noticeably leaner Elam said he has lost five percent body fat this offseason.

"I got myself stronger than I've ever been," Elam said. "I'm just ready to go and break out this season. The offseason went well. I'm ready to start the season. I'm ready to play ball again."

Ravens coach John Harbaugh certainly isn't giving up on his underachieving safety. "We still have high hopes for Matt Elam," Harbaugh said. "He looks good. He’s moving around well."

As for Brown, he was the subject of trade rumors last year, but Newsome decided to keep him. The depth the Ravens have at linebacker presents an issue, however.

"When you've got C.J. Mosley and Daryl Smith playing at a very high level, it’s hard for someone like Arthur to get to the field," Newsome said. "If those guys [Brown and Elam] put forth the effort and show the improvement that we think they should show, then both of them will get a chance to be on the field this year."

h/t: The Baltimore Sun

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