Defensive tackle Jay Ratliff has plenty of reasons to be excited going into the 2013 campaign.
For one, he’ll have a chance to get the bad taste of 2012 out of his mouth. Ratliff only appeared in six games as he struggled with foot, ankle and groin injuries--the fewest appearances he’s made since his rookie season back in 2005, when he saw action in just four contests--and finished with just 16 tackles and, for the first time in his career, no sacks.
Another reason for Ratliff’s excitement is the presence of Rod Marinelli, widely regarded as one of the best, if not the best, defensive line coaches in the league.
“He’s definitely a player’s coach. He coaches everyone the same way,” Ratliff told the team’s official website of Marinelli. “He has high expectations. Whether you’re a rookie or well-seasoned vet, he gives everyone the same amount of effort and time. He’s open to everyone’s questions. I think he controls the room really well because everyone respects him.”
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