Former Pittsburgh Steelers’ outside linebacker James Harrison, a central figure in the ongoing rivalry with the Baltimore Ravens, could cross enemy lines in free agency.
According to Harrison’s agent, the Ravens reached out to gauge Harrison’s interest in playing in Baltimore.
“I’ve talked to Ozzie, sure have, had a good talk about James,” said agent Bill Parise in the Baltimore Sun. “It’s early and we’re not in negotiations, but we’re having some good conversations. Baltimore would be an outstanding place for James to play because he knows the division and has that familiarity and they’re a class organization. We’ll see where it goes.”
The Ravens had Harrison under contract in 2003 and sent him to NFL Europe on a futures contract before releasing him in 2004, when the Steelers signed him as an injury replacement for Clark Haggans.
He remained with the Steelers until last week, when he was released after five Pro Bowl seasons in nine years, 64 sacks and the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year award.
The Ravens could lose five starters from their 2012 defense. One player they’ll need to replace is outside linebacker Paul Kruger, who signed with the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday.
Harrison could become a candidate to slide into one outside linebacker spot, but second-year pro Courtney Upshaw, a second-round pick in 2012, is the more likely candidate to fill Kruger’s shoes.