Though former Alabama DB Marlon Humphrey didn’t start for the Baltimore Ravens as a rookie last year, he did see plenty of action.

This year, he’s gearing up for an even bigger role, but he won’t go as far as saying he thinks he should start.

Out of respect for veterans Jimmy Smith and Brandon Carr, Humphrey said he’s simply trying to improve his own game and not worry about whether or not he’s in the starting lineup (via The Baltimore Sun):

“With Jimmy hurt, starting is not my main goal right now,” Humphrey said. “I’ve never been on a team where the No. 3 got as much playing time as I did last year and I am thankful for that. I think if I am a veteran player and the Ravens draft a guy that player has to prove that he deserves to start. I respect those veterans in front of me. It’s their job to lose.”

Humphrey had two interceptions and 11 passes defensed last season, to go with 30 tackles.

He’s probably ready for more work, but he’s saying all the right things so far this summer.