OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) - The Baltimore Ravens have signed defensive tackle Ryan McBean, who will sit out the first six games of the season for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy.
"We are giving Ryan the opportunity to compete and make our 53-player roster," General Manager Ozzie Newsome said. "We've done our research and consulted with the league office about Ryan and then signed him."
McBean spent the last three seasons with the Denver Broncos and is coming off a career season that included 19 tackles and four sacks. During his time in Denver, McBean played in 46 games and registered 77 tackles, four sacks and one fumble recovery.
He was a periodic starter for the Broncos, but the team allowed him to leave as a restricted free agent this offseason. Denver initially offered him a $1.3 million free-agent tender, but then rescinded the offer after adding veteran defensive tackle Justin Bannan.
The NFL handed down a six-game suspension to McBean in March for violating the league's performance-enhancement policy, but he is disputing the finding.
The former Denver Bronco was added for depth along the defensive line and signed a one-year contract.
The Ravens lost defensive end Cory Redding and defensive tackle Brandon McKinney during free agency to the Indianapolis Colts. Over the past week, the Ravens have signed McBean and another veteran defensive tackle, Ma'ake Kemoeatu.
Cornerback Cary Williams has signed his $1.927 million second-round restricted tender.
