Davon

Drew

With Dennis Pitta (broken hand) out 4-6 weeks, the Ravens needed a body at tight end. In 16 games with the Rams last year, Bajema compiled nine catches for 71 yards. Once Pitta is healthy, Bajema will battle Davon Drew for No. 3 tight end duties. Ed Dickson is the starter.

The writing was on the wall for Drew when Billy Bajema played ahead of him in Baltimore’s third preseason game. Stewart played his college ball at Temple, where he handed off relentlessly to Ravens rookie back Bernard Pierce.

He must not have been too out of shape, as he was taken off the list on Wednesday morning. Drew made a fine showing during offseason practices while Todd Heap and L.J. Smith were sidelined. He’ll now return to third on the depth chart.

Coming from a run-first ECU attack, Drew has blocking experience and took off as pass catcher in 2008, hauling in 32 passes for 536 yards (16.8 YPC) in his final eight games. Drew won’t play much in year one, but L.J. Smith is only on a one-year contract and Todd Heap is slowing down considerably.

Drew impressed in spring practice and should have a real chance to be Baltimore’s top pass-catching tight end down the road. Todd Heap has declined into a one-dimensional blocker and L.J. Smith is on a one-year deal.

Drew has vertical speed and showed good hands at OTAs. His blocking will need work, but we wouldn’t be surprised if he cuts heavily into L.J. Smith’s playing time by midseason. Assuming Smith isn’t already hurt by then.

Drew was the Ravens’ fifth-round pick this year. The real surprise is that Todd Heap and L.J. Smith both made it through training camp in one piece. That’s called an unlucky break for Drew.

Drew, Baltimore’s fifth-round pick in April, was claimed off waivers by Miami in early September before being let go with an injury settlement. He’s obviously got talent, as two high-quality organizations have shown interest in him.

It’s odd that Drew tried out for the Ravens on Monday considering he was in camp all summer. The fifth-round pick will be a developmental prospect and could take L.J. Smith’s spot next year.

Coach Tony Sparano heaped glowing praise on Drew after the team got him via waivers over the weekend, but he must’ve reported injured. The Fins may be on the lookout for another tight end with David Martin out for 2009.