Dec 18, 2011; San Diego, CA, USA; Baltimore Ravens tackle Bryant McKinnie (78) during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Former Vikings offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie has been rejected by yet another NFL team. The World Champion Baltimore Ravens have decided to trade him to the Miami Dolphins.
The Ravens had benched McKinnie earlier this year. His play and conditioning have both deteriorated over the years, and Baltimore believe they have a better option in Eugene Monroe to protect Joe Flacco’s blind side. The compensation that the Ravens are expected to receive for McKinnie has been described as a “late-round pick” by the media. The Dolphins were desperately looking for a tackle after Tyson Clabo was ineffective in Sunday’s loss to the Bills.
Sep 29, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Baltimore Ravens tackle Bryant McKinnie (78) tries to block Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams (94) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Ravens 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
When McKinnie can get himself in shape and plays with heart, he can be a very good player. Sadly, his heart hasn’t been in football for several seasons now. Miami is hoping that the late round pick is worth taking a look at the 34 year old offensive tackle.
Meanwhile, since releasing McKinnie, the Minnesota Vikings have dealt with problems at that position of their own. They had to watch Charlie Johnson struggle at the position until the team drafted Matt Kalil with the number 4 overall pick in 2012. Sadly, Kalil is currently dealing with a lower back injury that has his status for the Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants in jeopardy.