PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- Robert Tate, a sixth-year cornerback, has signed a one-year contract with Baltimore, and will play on special teams Friday night against the Eagles in Philadelphia.
"It's a great chance for me," Tate said. "I feel like I need a new start and this is a perfect fit for me. I'm coming here hungry and I'll go out there to compete."
Tate, who grew up in Harrisburg, Pa., and went to the University of Cincinnati, requested his release from the Minnesota Vikings earlier this week after the coaching staff made him a backup.
Now in Baltimore, he rejoins both head coach Brian Billick and special teams guru Gary Zauner, both of whom coached him in Minnesota before joining the Ravens.
"That should help a little bit because I know what they want and what they expect," Tate said. "That's the part I'm familiar with. But the other part, I'm not familiar with. The thing is to go out there, see what the tempo is and compete every day."
"Here's a guy who has started at corner for two [NFC] championship games," said Billick. "What he brings us in terms of experience, absolutely in the nickel and dime packages. He's also an excellent returner. A lot of teams were after him to do just that."
Tate will eventually compete for the starting cornerback spot across from Chris McAlister. Gary Baxter, originally penciled in as the starter, has been injured for the majority of the preseason, and the Ravens coaching staff views James Trapp as more of a nickel and dime specialist.
For now, Tate does not want to make waves.
"I'm not trying to come in and take [anyone's] spot," said Tate, who has three career interceptions and started 23 games in five years with the Vikings. "I just want to come in and help this team. "Whatever happens, happens."
With the Vikings, Tate struggled last year and was hampered by shoulder problems. He was released at his request.
