OWINGS MILLS — Reinforcing their defensive line depth with a
familiar face and a massive presence, the Baltimore Ravens signed veteran nose
guard Ma’ake Kemoeatu to a one-year contract.
Kemoeatu, 33, last played for the Ravens in 2005 before joining
the Carolina Panthers after that season via a five-year, $23 million contract
that included a $6 million signing bonus.
He signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the Washington
Redskins two years ago and started 12 games and recorded 29 tackles.
However, Kemoeatu didn’t play at all last season after being
released by the Redskins on July 28, 2011. He has dealt with serious Achilles
tendon and shoulder injuries.
Healthy now, Kemoeatu intends to play at least two to three more
seasons. The Ravens could plug him into their rotation with defensive tackle
Brandon McKinney having joined the Indianapolis Colts this offseason.
"Ma’ake will be given an opportunity to make our 53-man
roster," general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "And if he does, he will
provide added depth and help our ability to stop the run."
The 6-foot-5, 364-pounder has 237 career tackles, four sacks and
one forced fumble.
In his best season with the Ravens, who developed Kemoeatu after
he went undrafted out of Utah, the big defensive lineman started every game
during his last season in Baltimore and registered 40 tackles and a sack.
"When we signed Ma’ake as a rookie free agent in 2002, he
really rose to the occasion and worked his way into becoming a highly-regarded
player in Baltimore and throughout the league,” Ravens director of pro
personnel Vince Newsome said. “He is incredibly strong, someone who has heavy
hands and great punch. For a guy his size, he also moves really well and
creates separation.”
NOTE: The Ravens’ minicamps are set for May 11-13 (rookies), June
12-14 (mandatory, full-team) and three organized team activities on May 22-24,
May 29-31 and June 4-7.
