Baltimore Ravens Free Agency: Why Eric Winston Is Not a Good Fit in Baltimore

It has been reported by several sources that former Houston Texans right tackle Eric Winston is scheduled to visit with the Baltimore Ravens today.

However, the move wouldn't make much sense for the Ravens, as left tackle Bryant McKinnie tweeted yesterday that he will be returning to Baltimore in 2012.

"Raven Fans I was n Baltimore 2day, 2 confirm that ill be there next season," tweeted McKinnie Thursday afternoon.

With McKinnie returning and Michael Oher already having the starting right tackle position locked up, there is no need to sign Winston.

Winston hasn't missed a start since 2006 (his rookie season), which means that he will certainly be a starting tackle with whichever team he signs with. Also, at 28 years of age Winston is entering his prime, which means he will command a pretty hefty contract.

So, if the Ravens are trying to find depth at the offensive tackle position, Winston is  not the answer. He is deserving of being paid as a top-10 right tackle in the NFL. He would be much too pricey for the Ravens, as the team simply needs depth at the tackle position, not a starter.

Instead, the Ravens need to turn their full attention to left guard Evan Mathis, who has been meeting with the team for over 24 hours. Mathis was rated as the best left guard in the NFL in 2011 by Pro Football Focus, and would be a pretty solid replacement for Ben Grubbs, who signed a five-year deal with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday.