The Ravens today agreed to a deal with Cowboys 5-time Pro Bowl center Andre Gurode (pronounced jer-ODD). The 1 year deal has a maximum value of $3 million.
Gurode underwent surgery on his right knee and according Shan Shariff from 105.3 The Fan’s New School in Dallas, the Cowboys weren’t thrilled with his conditioning when he reported to camp. Mix in his $5 million plus salary and the belief that backup Phil Costa, an undrafted player out of the University of Maryland, was playing just as effectively, and Gurode’s days in the Big D were numbered.
Pending a successful physical Gurode will sign his deal tomorrow.
It remains to be seen who will be the Ravens primary starter at center, Gurode or incumbent Matt Birk. Interestingly enough Gurode’s maximum salary matches Birk’s deal. The Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome stated today that the addition of Gurode is a depth move.
“To have a successful season, you have to have quality depth across the board”, said Newsome. “We just added great depth to the interior O-line."
Time will tell how it plays out but options include cutting Birk, assigning Mattison to the practice squad or making a move elsewhere on the roster. Mattison has played in only 2 NFL games and therefore he has practice squad eligibility remaining. The team doesn’t have to make a roster decision until after the Ravens v. Steelers game. They get a 1 week roster reprieve due to David Reed’s suspension.
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