OWINGS MILLS — The Baltimore Ravens cut offensive guard Howard Barbieri, executing their first transaction of the season with rookies, quarterbacks and injured veterans from last season opening training camp Tuesday afternoon.
The 6-foot-5, 300-pounder was signed to a reserve/future contract in January, but was sidelined for minicamps and organized team activities with a lower back injury.
The Ravens appear to be well-stocked at offensive guard, including Pro Bowl right guard Marshal Yanda, projected starting left guard Bobbie Williams, rookie second-round draft pick Kelechi Osemele and Tony Wragge.
However, the defending AFC North champions could also be in the market for another veteran blocker depending on who becomes available.
Barbieri will become an unrestricted free agent Tuesday if he goes unclaimed off waivers.
Barbieri had a previous stint with the Houston Texans last season.
Barbieri played collegiately at Rutgers. He has yet to appear in an NFL game.
"We’ll see where we go from here, the timing was not the best for us," said Bill Parise, Barbieri’s agent, in a telephone interview. "Obviously, they knew he was injured. He was doing real well and we thought he would get on the field in the next day or two. So, we’re a little surprised."
