Multiple reports have stated that the Ravens made contact with veteran receiver Kelley Washington this week to negotiate a free-agent contract, which would likely be for the veteran minimum or slightly over that mark.
Washington was one of three candidates that Baltimore brought in for a tryout in last weekend's minicamp, and he was also the one that stood out the most among a group that included Jerry Porter and Tab Perry.
An agreement has not yet been reached, but one must if Washington wants to participate in the Ravens' passing camp next week. The Ravens will only announce the signing of a free agent addition when he has officially signed the contract.
According to other reports, Washington was offered a position with the Washington Redskins after trying out for the team, but the Redskins recently signed receivers Roydell Williams and Keith Eloi. Washington could audition for other teams this offseason.
After looking a little lost during his first day with the Ravens, Washington closed out his time in Owings Mills, Md., with two solid days of practices.
He made several tough catches in traffic and even snared a diving touchdown grab from **Troy Smith** on Sunday, a play he celebrated with his notable "Squirrel Dance" in the end zone.
"Kelley did well. Kelley is a big, strong receiver, obviously made a couple of catches out here today," head coach **John Harbaugh** said at the time.
A former third-round draft pick of the Cincinnati Bengals, Washington has a previous relationship with Ravens quarterbacks coach **Hue Jackson**, who served as the Bengals' wideouts coach from 2004-006.
At 6-foot-3, 218 pounds, Washington boasts impressive size and is a versatile special teams player, as well.
"I want to play for a contending team," Washington said. "I just have to look at what situation is best for me. I would love to play some receiver and definitely contribute on special teams. The Ravens gave me a great opportunity, and I wanted to do the best I could."
That wasn't easy from the outset. Washington admitted he was given the playbook Thursday night, hours before he first took the practice field.
He focused on showcasing his sure hands and reliable route-running, even if he wasn't initially on the same page as Baltimore's quarterbacks.
"All weekend, I've just tried to go out and make some plays," Washington said. "In this type of setting, you have to keep up with the offense as best you can. You're going to make some plays and drop some balls. It's up to the personnel department to evaluate you.
"When I was working with my position group, I just wanted to show that I could catch the ball and run good routes, do the things that I can so when I do know the offense, I can contribute."
The addition of Washington would bring six-years of experience to the receivers meeting room, joining 13-year veteran **Derrick Mason** as the most tenured of the group.
