Ravens sign Drew Bennett to one-year deal

Yesterday, the Ravens hosted four receivers for a workout and reached a one-year deal with one of the four.

In a group that included D.J. Hackett, Chris Hannon and Justin Brown, the Ravens selected Drew Bennett, who signed a contract for the veteran minimum ($745,000), according to Edward Lee of the Baltimore Sun.

Bennett won’t come close to his career year (2004) when he caught 80 passes for 1,247 yards and 11 touchdowns.  But he is a big target (6′5″) and provides some help and depth to a receiving corps that has lost its top receiver.

This off-season, Bennett was released by the Rams and he only caught 34 passes in his two seasons there.  Last year, his season ended in the season opener when he broke a bone in his foot.

Before working out for the Ravens, Bennett had worked out for other teams – Buccaneers, Falcons, Browns and Titans – this off-season.

“I’m used to it now,” Bennett said. “[I've] been to a couple of these, but I thought it went well. I feel good, I feel healthy, I feel strong, all the corny stuff you’re supposed to say when you have a workout. But I feel like I’m in good shape, and it went well. I caught the ball well. I feel comfortable.”

Considering the proximity to the start of training camp (Tuesday, 7/28) and Bennett’s experience, getting a receiver of his ability for the league minimum is a good move.

But the key still remains Derrick Mason.

If John Harbaugh and the Ravens can’t convince Mason to return for another season, their offense will still struggle a bit in the passing game.  Harbaugh talked to Mason earlier in the week and is optimistic about the possibility of Mason returning.

Tags: Derrick Mason, Drew Bennett