Baltimore Ravens add Drew Bennett to fill void at wide receiver

Veteran wide receiver Drew Bennett was picked by Ravens head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome to help the team while it waits to see if receiver Derrick Mason stays retired.

Bennett agreed to a one-year contract with the Ravens worth $745,000, according to a source. Bennett worked out with the Ravens on Friday and passed a physical before accepting the offer.

AFC West Blog: Ravens Go Safe

Adding Drew Bennett isn't a high-profile signing, but it's a safe move for the Ravens, writes ESPN.com's James Walker. Blog

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"At this time of year, it's good to be able to pick up a player who has been very productive in the league, and that includes against our defense," Newsome said in a statement released by the team. "Drew has been very competitive against us. We obviously liked his workout today. We wanted to make sure he was healthy and that he still had the things we've seen against us and on film."

The 30-year-old Bennett was released by the Rams Feb. 25. He was entering the third year of a six-year, $30 million contract he signed in 2007 after playing six seasons with the Tennessee Titans.

Bennett had 80 catches and 1,247 yards for the Titans in 2004. He followed that season with 58 and 46 catches before leaving for the Rams in 2007. Things didn't work out in St. Louis, as he started only one game in two years and caught 34 passes for 379 yards during those two seasons.

"Drew's situation is a lot like L.J. Smith, who we added earlier this offseason," Newsome said. "Both are proven veterans coming off injuries, and they are looking for the opportunity to resurrect their careers."

The need for veteran receiver was created in the past week when Mason announced his retirement. Harbaugh talked to Mason recently and is optimistic Mason might return, but Mason remains adamant that he is retiring.

Baltimore Ravens to meet with Derrick Mason soonEto’o closer to Inter