Harbaugh says McKinnie will start at left tackle

Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed that the team’s plan is to start newly signed Bryant McKinnie at left tackle and move Michael Oher to the right side.

McKinnie, who signed with the Ravens on Tuesday, has started at left tackle for the past eight seasons for the Minnesota Vikings. Oher started at right tackle as a rookie before moving to the left side, where he has played for the 2010 season and all training camp this year.

“We’ll see how it goes. Everything is fluid,” coach John Harbaugh said after the Ravens’ 34-31 preseason win over the Washington Redskins. “I would love to say that’s set in stone, but that’s not set in stone. Michael Oher is about as good a person, great as a team guy as I’ve ever been around in my career. Ozzie and I brought him in and talked to him the night before last night and he said it before we said it: ‘Whatever I need to do to help this be the best football l team and the best offensive line that it can be.’”

McKinnie was reportedly cut by the Vikings earlier this month because he reported to training camp out of shape. Harbaugh said he was impressed by his first meeting with the 2009 Pro Bowl player.

“He’s been working out and he’s been eating right,” Harbaugh said. “I’m very impressed with him. He’s a very mature guy. He’s very excited to be here. He’s a very intelligent guy. I’m looking forward to getting him in the fold.”

Click here to order Bryant McKinnie’s proCane Rookie Card.


(baltimoresun.com)