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Reserving Judgement
 I was determined to sit back and wait for the initial "knee-jerk" reaction to pass before I wrote something about the Baltimore Ravens signing Donte' Stallworth. I had plenty to say, but I wanted to think about it first, so I would not have to take anything back.
Many of you think I'm going to bring up the manslaughter charge, but I'm not. I spoke with Ravens President Dick Cass a couple of weeks ago about character, and I came away with the impression that Stallworth's character was less of an issue than others. Stallworth's situation, was unacceptable, but it was one dumb act. Stallworth doesn't have a "laundry list" of problems that pile up. While his mistake took a life, the judicial system and the family of the victim decided on a minimal sentence and a financial settlement in the case.
I want to talk about what is important to Baltimore Ravens fans, and that is whether or not this man can improve the team's passing game.
Stallworth was a first-round draft pick for the New Orleans Saints in 2002. He played in 13-games that year and caught 42 passes for over 14-yards per reception. He missed five-games the next year and only caught 25 passes but averaged over 19-yards per reception.
Stallworth then went on to enjoy his best years the next two seasons. It was no coincidence Stallworth played all 16-games those two seasons as well. Donte' caught 128 passes for over 1,300-yards and 12 touchdowns in the two years combined. In the three-years following that, Stallworth had only caught 101 passes with nine touchdowns. He only had one season in that time where he played 16-games and he missed the entire 2009 season.
Those are the issues that concern me with Donte' Stallworth. I'm not sure who Stallworth replaces. Where does Stallworth provide an upgrade other than Demetrius Williams? Is he better than Mark Clayton? I'm not certain about that.
Look, if Stallworth ends up being the team's number two guy, I'm not sure if that makes the offense much better. If he is the third guy, I believe the offense will be a lot better. If he's "the guy," I think the Ravens could be in trouble. That's why I'm waiting to grade this move. He could be only a small piece to what the Baltimore Ravens do in the off-season.
Rob Long
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