OWINGS MILLS — Although the Baltimore Ravens aren’t going to emerge as suitors for wide receiver Randy Moss, they aren’t ruling out kicking the tires on outside linebacker Shawne Merriman.
Merriman was placed on waivers by the San Diego Chargers, but the Ravens (5-2) wouldn’t have a high priority as far as making a claim because of their record.
Harbaugh acknowledged discussing the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year with general manager Ozzie Newsome. The Ravens could use another pass rusher to work in tandem with outside linebacker Terrell Suggs, but it’s unclear if Merriman has much left.
“He’s a guy we talked about,” Harbaugh said during his weekly WBAL radio program. “Ozzie and I had a long discussion today. We’ll see if he gets through waivers.”
However, Harbaugh indicated that the Ravens would only be inclined to sign Merriman at a reduced price rather than pay the remainder of his $3.269 million restricted tender.
Merriman’s production has dipped in recent years.
Potential landing spots for Merriman include the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers.
Merriman recorded four sacks last season in nine games. He has dealt with Achilles, calf, foot, groin and knee injuries over the past few years.
The former University of Maryland star and Maryland native also has a previous four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
"We’ll have a discussion about it and see where we’re at," said Harbaugh, referring to if Merriman clears waivers today.
As for why the team won’t pursue Moss, the Ravens already have Anquan Boldin, Derrick Mason, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Donte’ Stallworth at wide receiver.
