OWINGS MILLS — The Baltimore Ravens have signed former Dallas Cowboys cornerback and kick returner Bryan McCann to a two-year contract, a move prompted by injuries to cornerbacks Chris Carr and Jimmy Smith.
The Ravens cut reserve linebacker and special-teams contributor Prescott Burgess to create a roster spot for McCann.
McCann’s contract included a small undisclosed bonus.
"It’s a great situation," John Biggins, McCann’s agent, told 24×7. "They want him to return punts and kickoffs and provide depth in the secondary. Bryan is excited about being back with the Ravens. They have been keeping track of his progress and like him as a player. Bryan is thrilled to be on a Super Bowl caliber team."
McCann was with the Ravens last season for one game and was inactive before being cut. He was claimed off waivers from the Cowboys.
A former undrafted free agent from Southern Methodist, McCann returned an Eli Manning interception 101 yards for a touchdown last season against the New York Giants after being re-signed by Dallas and elevated from the practice squad.
He also returned a punt 97 yards for a touchdown against the Detroit Lions and was named NFL Rookie of the Week.
McCann finished the season with 15 tackles.
He returned 23 kickoffs for a 22.0 average and eight punts for a 20.6 average, playing in nine games.
Cut by the Cowboys on Sept. 20, McCann had a tryout with the St. Louis Rams and wasn’t signed.
Carr has been dealing with a left hamstring injury since early in training camp shortly after signing a four-year, $14 million contract.
Drafted in the first round, Smith has been sidelined with a high left ankle sprain since getting hurt in the Ravens’ season-opening win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
NOTE: Strong safety Tom Zbikowski’s concussion symptoms are subsiding and he’s expected to return for the Ravens’ home game against the Houston Texans following the bye.
