Nov 18, 2012; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Dallas Clark (44) scores the winning touchdown in overtime. The Buccaneers defeated the Panthers 27-21 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Lets add yet another name to the receiver mix, this time Dallas Clark.
The Ravens have reportedly agreed in principle to a deal with the veteran TE/WR to join them for a one year stint. The numbers of the deal are not yet known, but like with the Brandon Stokley signing yesterday, it is probably close to the veteran minimum with little or no guaranteed money.
The Ravens clearly didnt like what they saw from their WR group during thursdays preseason opener, because they wasted little time bringing in two new competitors in an already crowded pass catching group. It sends a clear message to the young players. yesterday you were competing for playing time, today you might be competing for your roster spot. It is time to step up.
Clark was a pretty widely suspected match with the Ravens when Dennis Pitta went down based on his familiarity with Jim Caldwell and his offense. Clark, like Stokley, brings good route running and great hands in addition to a wealth of veteran savvy and knowledge. The Ravens made a huge push to get younger this offseason, but maybe they got too young, at least at the WR position.
Clark does have some injury history to contend with(most notably concussions), but he will be a good competitor and is likely a favorite to win a starting job as a slot receiver granted he is healthy. That said, Coach Harbaugh made it very clear today that neither Stokley nor Clark were guaranteed roster spots. they were just two more players who would get a chance to compete for a job. We will just have to wait and see how this plays out.