Another Ravens Wide Receiver Announces Retirement

Sports Betting News - July 27th, 2009 - Written by Ryan Smith

The Baltimore Ravens, who lost long time wide out Derrick Mason to retirement just a few weeks ago, offered and signed a contract with ex-Tennessee Titans wide receiver Drew Bennett late Friday afternoon. Fallowing a flight back home after a visit to the Ravens organization and facilities, Bennett discovered an irritation and inflammation problem with a knee that has given Bennett troubles in the past. Upon arrival after the Baltimore Ravens sit down Drew Bennett realized another 16 game NFL football season might be too much for the 30 year old 9 year veteran from UCLA to handle.

Drew Bennett announced his retirement from the NFL after signing a lucrative contract with the Baltimore Ravens just two days earlier. ESPN news and John Clayton report Bennett had this to say after announcing his second retirement for the league. "After returning home from Baltimore this weekend, a previous knee injury flared up, making me realize that I am unable to play another NFL season," Bennett said. "Therefore, I have decided to retire from the National Football League. I want to thank Coach Harbaugh, Coach Cameron and Ozzie Newsome for offering me the opportunity to be a part of their outstanding organization, and apologize to them for this unfortunate situation.

Later, Bennett further said "The Ravens are a first-class organization that I was truly excited to join. After an off season of workouts and rehab I thought I was ready to play again, but it became apparent over this weekend that while my mind is willing, my body will not be able to make it through another NFL season. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to play in the NFL for as long as I have, but it is time for me to move on to the next chapter in my life."

Bennett spent his first 6 years all with the Tennessee Titans, and in 2004 Bennett played in all 16 games games for the Titans catching 80 passes for 1,247 yards and snatched 11 touchdown passes on the year. Bennett never played all 16 games in a single season again after that 2004 year and, never caught more than 58 passes in a single season. The Ravens will struggle to find another talented wide out to replace both Derrick Mason and Drew Bennett in this upcoming 2009 NFL football season. Joe Flaco will have to hope the Ravens run game is prepared to carry the load on offense.