:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58259095/usa_today_10503565.0.jpg)
Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun is reporting that Baltimore Ravens tight end Ben Watson is contemplating retirement:
Watson, a veteran of 14 seasons, returned to the Ravens after tearing his Achilles in 2016. He managed a team leading 61 receptions for 522 yards and four touchdowns. Watson was also honored as the Ravens nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award for his philanthropy.
If Watson does decide to continue playing, he will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Adding a tight end who can provide advantageous matchups in the middle of the field should be a priority for the Ravens. Nick Boyle is a competent blocker, but does not have the skillset to stretch the seams. Former second round selection Maxx Williams has not developed as planned.
Without Watson, Baltimore may be pigeonholed into drafting a tight end on Day 2 of the 2018 NFL draft. The free agent options at the position are relatively unimpressive. Penn State’s Mike Gesicki is an intriguing prospect who could add a vertical dimension to the Ravens tight end corps.