Terrence Cody started every game as an NFL sophomore.
But last year was a rough one for the former Alabama second-round pick.
Cody was beaten out by veteran Ma'ake Kemoeatu and started just three games. His run defense – the thing he was known for – was lacking, as blockers often knocked him off the line.
Now Cody is in a contract year. And he's not only looking to earn back a prominent role on Baltimore's talented and deep defensive line, but stay around for a few more years.
"It's not winning [my job] back," he said. "It's letting them know that I can play, that I can start on the defense and that I'm not done."
Part of Cody's struggles last year can be attributed to injuries. He told reporters that he underwent hip and elbow surgeries this offseason, which forced him out of all of the team's Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp.
Cody was concerned that his elbow was going to force him to miss some of training camp. But he was back on the field at the start and feels he's getting back to his old, more dominant form.
Cody engaged in a practice scrum with Gino Gradkowski on one of the first days of camp. He tossed guard Jah Reid to the ground another day. On Sunday, Cody sent Gradkowski to the trainer to get his ankle looked at.
"Technique is a little rusty right now, but each day I'm getting better and better," Cody said. "I feel good."
Cody is also sporting a new look. Long a proud owner of dreadlocks, he had them shorn off at the start of training camp. "I felt like a new year, a new look," he said.
It's a fresh, healthy start for Cody. And he's hoping it will lead to an invitation to stay in Baltimore long-term. The Ravens brought in support this offseason in the form of run-stuffing Marcus Spears and rookie Brandon Williams. Cody's contract will run out at the end of the season.
"I really want to play for the Ravens as long as I can," he said. "But if it's my time to go, it's my time to go. It's a business."
