Ben Watson Reportedly to Sign with Ravens

Veteran tight end Benjamin Watson has reportedly signed with the Baltimore Ravens, according to Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun.

Dianna Marie Russini of ESPN first reported Tuesday that the Ravens are emerging as a potential landing spot after showing "strong, strong interest," according to sources.

Watson is coming off a career year, which isn't something that's usually said for a 35-year-old who's been in the league for 12 seasons. But the New Orleans Saints needed him to step up following the departure of Jimmy Graham, and he responded in a major way.

The Georgia product racked up 74 catches for 825 yards and six touchdowns as part of the Saints' high-powered passing attack. All of those key numbers either set or matched a career high.

In February, Joel A. Erickson of the Advocate passed along comments from Watson about his impending free agency. He was hopeful of staying in New Orleans, but he also understands the business: "It is exciting to have the possibility to return there, but as an NFL veteran, you know how it works."

He's also a positive influence both in the locker room and in the community. He was a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award last season, as Paul Schwartz of the New York Post noted:

The Ravens' interest came as somewhat of a surprise. They have a deep group of options at the position that includes Maxx Williams, Crockett Gillmore and Dennis Pitta. Injuries have been a major factor over the past couple of years, though.

Luke Jones of WNST discussed the situation further and added Nick Boyle to the conversation:

Adding Watson gives them a more reliable tight end in the short term while the front office tries to figure out exactly what it has in those other players.