Team uses Suggs' roster spot to sign Phillips

By Jamison Hensley | Sun reporter

July 24, 2008

Defensive end-linebacker Terrell Suggs was the Ravens' only unexcused absence after not attending the first team meeting of training camp last night.

With Suggs not reporting, the Ravens used his roster spot to sign cornerback Anwar Phillips, who was released by the New Orleans Saints on Monday.

The Ravens kept Suggs from becoming a free agent this offseason by using the franchise tag on the 2003 first-round pick. Suggs, 25, will earn $8.5million this season.

Because he has not signed the tender and is therefore not under contract, Suggs can skip training camp without incurring any penalties or fines.

It is unknown when Suggs plans to report to the Ravens.

In 2004, cornerback Chris McAlister missed all of training camp and the first three preseason games to protest being named the team's franchise player for the second straight year.

Last week, the Ravens were unable to reach an extension with Suggs before the NFL deadline for franchise players. General manager Ozzie Newsome said the team wants to sign Suggs to a new deal after the season.

Attempts to reach Suggs were unsuccessful.

The only other veteran missing from camp is cornerback Samari Rolle, who will be attending his father's funeral Monday.

jamison.hensley@baltsun.com