After a revitalizing season that earned him a two-year commitment from the Ravens, Ben Watson now faces an uncertain future. The 35-year-old tight end tore his Achilles’ tendon on Saturday night, and the Ravens announced (on Twitter) he will be out for the remainder of the sea
son.
Watson suffered the injury on the first play of the Ravens’ preseason game against the Lions, doing so in a game that featured Terrell Suggs and Joe Flacco make their 2016 debuts for Baltimore.
Watson signed a two-year, $7MM deal with the Ravens in March, with $3MM in full guarantees. He’s set to earn $4MM this season. Watson will turn 36 in December and will now be facing the prospect of potentially making a comeback for a 14th season in 2017 on the heels of one of toughest injuries from which to recover.
A former Patriots, Browns and Saints starter, Watson enjoyed his finest statistical season at age 34 last season, catching 74 passes for 825 yards and eight touchdowns — all career highs — and added to the Ravens’ deep, yet muddled tight end corps.
Baltimore still has 2015 second-rounder Maxx Williams, along with 2014 third-rounder Crockett Gillmore. Dennis Pitta remains the Ravens’ highest-paid tight end, but while he was finally cleared to return after the career-threatening hip injury, the 31-year-old is out due to a broken finger sustained in a training camp fight. Pitta
played just seven games in the past three seasons.
So, the Ravens might have the depth to withstand this. But their 2016 passing game — which will attempt to pick up the pieces after the team lost most of its starting skill-position talent in 2015 — will absorb a hit as a result of Watson’s absence.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.
Didn’t like the signing in the first place. Why spend good money on a 35 year old TE when we just invested a 2nd rounder in Maxx Williams, we have Crocket Gilmore who proved viable, and Boyle who also showed flashes?
We have the opportunity to turn to youth with great potential and instead sink cash into an old man coming off a fluke career year.
I thought one of those tight ends were suspended ?
Boyle is, but he’s the 3rd string guy. Also suspended is Darren Waller for four games who is converting from WR but many in the org believe has potential.
If guys are suspended, That’s why you sign a veteran. Like you can predict injuries. Good job Mr Hindsight
The guys suspended would have been the 3rd and 4th TEs on the roster. Still no need for a vet when you have two competent TEs and a wildcard Dennis Pitta in addition to the suspended duo.
His career is probably over now. Solid career.