OWINGS MILLS — Intent on bolstering their defensive line, the Baltimore Ravens’ search for depth brought them to suspended former Denver Broncos defensive lineman Ryan McBean.
McBean, 28, was signed to a one-year contract.
The Broncos rescinded his $1.272 million restricted free agent tender after the NFL punished him with a six-game suspension for a violation of the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy.
After dropping a lawsuit that claims that the NFL didn’t follow proper testing procedure and mishandled his urine sample, McBean’s suspension has now been reduced to three games.
McBean is eligible to take part in all offseason activities and preseason practices and games with his suspension beginning the first week of the regular season. He’s now slated to return for the Ravens’ Sept. 27 game against the Cleveland Browns.
“We are giving Ryan the opportunity to compete and make our 53-player roster,” general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "We’ve done our research and consulted with the league office about Ryan and then signed him."
Replaced on the Broncos’ roster by former Ravens defensive tackle Justin Bannan, McBean recorded 33 tackles and four sacks last season.
For his career, the 6-foot-5, 305-pound former Pittsburgh Steelers fourth-round draft pick from Oklahoma State has 77 tackles and one fumble recovery. He started a career-high 14 games three years ago.
Last year, McBean was arrested for allegedly stalking a former girlfriend. However, he wasn’t charged by prosecutors following a review of the case.
A week ago, the Ravens signed 6-5, 364-pound veteran defensive tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu.
Kemoeatu signed a one-year, $825,000 contract.
Under the minimum salary benefit, Kemoeatu’s salary-cap figure is $540,000.
The Ravens lost defensive end Cory Redding and defensive tackle Brandon McKinney via free agency to the Indianapolis Colts.
