Ex-Alabama safety Nick Perry has the opportunity to achieve something that former teammate and All-American safety Landon Collins won’t be able to do, obtain the scepter of Baltimore’s secondary left behind by Super Bowl champion Ed Reed.

With Reed retired and Matt Elam injured (torn biceps), Perry is competing with Brynden Trawick and Anthony Levine for a backup role at safety.

He totaled 80 tackles, six pass breakups and two interceptions last season at Alabama.

According to Matt Zenitz of al.com., Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is “very pleased” with Perry. He said Perry knows football and is a tough, good player.

The former Crimson Tide standout intercepted a deep pass off backup quarterback Matt Schaub, during Monday’s camp session. It was the top play of the day.

Exceptional play on special teams could help Perry carve out a niche with the Ravens.

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.