The Baltimore Ravens have expressed "strong, strong interest" in tight end Ben Watson, sources told ESPN's Dianna Marie Russini.
This makes sense because the Ravens are suddenly in need of help at tight end and Watson is coming off a career season for the New Orleans Saints.
Baltimore thought it was set at tight end until Crockett Gillmore had surgery on both shoulders this offseason and Nick Boyle was suspended for the first 10 games after violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs. General manager Ozzie Newsome suggested at the NFL combine last month that Gillmore is questionable for the start of training camp.
At this point, Maxx Williams, a second-round pick from a year ago, currently tops the depth chart, and he had trouble staying healthy during his rookie season. Dennis Pitta, who hasn't played since September 2014 because of hip surgeries, could be a post-June 1 cut.
Adding Watson would give the Ravens more experience at tight end as well as proven production. In his 13th season, Watson set career highs in receptions (74) and yards receiving (825). He also matched his personal best with six touchdown catches.
The only downside is Watson is 35. But Baltimore would likely only want Watson on a short-term deal given their youth at tight end. Watson also hasn't shown signs of wearing down, missing one game in his past four seasons.
Other options at tight end for the Ravens include Owen Daniels, 33, who was released Tuesday by the Denver Broncos, and Scott Chandler, 30, who is visiting the Colts on Tuesday after being cut by the Patriots last week. But Watson put up bigger numbers than Daniels and Chandler last season.
