Chargers make preliminary inquiry about Bryant McKinnie, source says

The San Diego Chargers made a preliminary inquiry to free agent offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, according to a league source with knowledge of the situation.

McKinnie, 33, is an unrestricted free agent who started every game in the playoffs after being replaced at left tackle during the regular season by Michael Oher.
No signing or visit is imminent and it's unlikely that McKinnie will strike a deal with any team until after the NFL draft.

Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome has remained in touch with McKinnie, and the door isn't closed on his potential return with the Super Bowl champions.

What transpires in the draft for the Ravens and other teams that need a left tackle like the Chargers will probably determine what's next for McKinnie, a former Pro Bowl blocker with the Minnesota Vikings who attended the University of Miami.

The 6-foot-8, 354-pound New Jersey native has been working out regularly in South Florida, according to his agent, Michael George. McKinnie has battled conditioning and weight issues in the past.

McKinnie hasn't taken any visits during a slow free agency signing period for himself and other unemployed offensive tackles, including Eric Winston and Andre Smith.

McKinnie was contacted by the Chicago Bears when free agency started, but they quickly reached a deal with former New Orleans Saints and Towson offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod as their new left tackle.

During the playoffs, McKinnie excelled and drew praise from Ravens coach John Harbaugh for stonewalling several top pass rushers during victories over the Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers to win the Vince Lombardi trophy.


(batimoresun.com)