According to the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens have signed WR Drew Bennett.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-drew-bennett-ravens-723,0,837369.story
I like the signing, and believe he can help the Ravens in 2009.
However, he missed nearly all of 2008 (catching 1 pass), and had under 400 yards in 2007. He will be 31 years old when the season starts. He can be an upgrade to Washington as the 4th WR (with return of Mason), but if he is our 2nd, or 3rd WR we are in horrible shape.
Everything comes back to Mason. I think he is coming back, but you need a definitive answer.
The Ravens can not afford to see Mason not come back, and other options be unavailable.
I understand the questions with each of Jones, Harrison, and Toomer, but the risks are low, and I think each were better choices vs Bennett.
If Jones relapses, he is gone. What he did in 12 games last year was impressive. He represents a physical talent the team currently lacks. Harrison’s legal issues cloud things, but he caught 60 balls last year. His routes would be good, you would have to protect his legs. Toomer is turning 35, but has caught 59 and 48 balls the last 2 years, while playing all 32 games. I would like 1 of the 3 (with preference to Jones, or the return of Mason).
I like Clayton and Williams, but if Mason does not come back, that is not enough. Clayton’s 17 yards per reception was impressive in 2008….and I’m sure he would further emerge in 2009 if Mason is gone, but it is still a question. Williams has the physical skills, but has played a total of 16 games the past 2 years.
Without a doubt, Jones has well documented problems with drug-use, but it seems like they do not think he could help.
Do they not think Jones is talented compared to the existing roster?
Jones had 65 receptions in 12 games last year, and is only 26. A 6’6 240lb guy that was clocked at 4.3 at the combine is not talented? Add in the fact that he was a college qb and the Suggs package… and it seems like a great fit.
The drug use bothers me, but that has mostly been a harm to Jones himself. (Vs Marshall’s abuse) He is on his last-strike… seems like a minimal risk worth taking in the Ravens position.
What was the risk of bringing him to today’s workout in Owings Mills like his agent asked, and speaking to him directly?
Again, everything comes back to Mason. This can not linger much longer, as a decision either way has to be made.
Owner
Chris Stoner founded Baltimore Sports and Life in 2009. He has appeared as a radio guest with 1090 WBAL, 105.7 The Fan, CBS 1300, Q1370, WOYK 1350, WKAV 1400, and WNST 1570. He has also been interviewed by The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore Business Journal, and PressBox (TV). As Owner, his responsibilities include serving as the Managing Editor, Publicist, & Sales Director.