Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
The Ravens are willing to let left tackle Bryant McKinnie hit free agency, according to reports. How will the Super Bowl champs address the blindside going forward?
Bryant McKinnie won't be getting a new contract from the Baltimore Ravens before the 2013 NFL Free Agency period begins on March 13, according to Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com. League sources told La Canfora that the Ravens will let their starting left tackle test the market, though a return to the team has not been ruled out.
McKinnie joined the Ravens in 2011 after spending nine seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. He became the starter at left tackle late last season, and protected quarterback Joe Flacco's blindside throughout the their playoff run to a Super Bowl title. McKinnie hasn't always endeared himself with coaches and the front office, however. His conditioning and dedication to the game were major question marks before the season began.
Despite the concerns, McKinnie proved to be a solid starter this past season. The Ravens will have to decide whether he is worth bringing back despite the headaches. The team also knows that Michael Oher can fill in capably at left tackle, thought he has proven much more comfortable at right tackle throughout his career.
The Ravens could also look to a deep class of offensive tackles in the 2013 NFL Draft to address their needs. Florida State left tackle Menelik Watson is currently projected to go the Ravens with the 32nd overall pick in Matthew Fairburn's latest mock draft.
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