Free agent offensive tackle Austin Howard visiting with the Ravens

Injuries have been brutal on the Ravens to start training camp, and the offensive line is no exception. But even before the slew of injuries hit, the Ravens have had a position battle for the right tackle position, and according to the Baltimore Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec, the Ravens are currently looking at bringing in outside help to the position.

If the Ravens are able to land Austin Howard, he would immediately become the first-team right tackle, and seemingly put an end to the right tackle competition. Howard was rated as the 52nd best offensive tackle out of 77 players last year by Pro Football Focus. While not the highest rated, Howard provides a large upgrade over current projected starter James Hurst.

Earlier today, Howard was reportedly visiting with the Houston Texans. Now, he is in Baltimore, as interest in the free agent tackle is beginning to rise.

As noted by Zrebiec, Howard was recently released by the Oakland Raiders. In three seasons with the Raiders, Howard started 39 of 40 games. Howard started his career with the Eagles before going to the Jets. With the Jets, Howard started all 16 games in each of the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

Check back to Baltimore Beatdown for more details on Howard’s visit as they come out.