photo: Baltimore Ravens
The ink has dried on tight end Dennis Pitta’s new five-year, $32 million contract, and it’s time to go to work.
Pitta, one of last seasons missing cogs in an offense that struggled throughout the season, is back and excited to be a part of the new 2014 Ravens offense.
“We’re all looking forward to getting back to work and being the offense that we know we’re capable of,” Pitta acknowledged at his press conference on Wednesday.
It remains to be seen for now just what the Ravens offense will look like under new offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak. However, Pitta will no doubt play a huge role if history is any indication.
With Pitta now secured the Ravens can now turn their attention to solving their offensive line issues as well as run game personnel.
“It starts with the run game to get the offense back on track,” replied Pitta when asked about becoming a better blocker.
Pitta acknowledged his explosiveness wasn’t 100% last year after the hip surgery, but he’s working to get that back this offseason. Getting that back will go a long way toward improving his ability to support the run game.
For now, the 29-year-old tight end is estatic to have the chance to work with quarterback and friend Joe Flacco for the next five years.
Pitta stated he’s already talked with Flacco about getting together with some of other wide receivers this offseason before OTAs, which only stresses how focused he is on improving not just his game but also the team’s offense as a whole.
“I’m incredibly excited to be a Baltimore Raven going forward. This is one of the best franchises around the NFL and in sports,” Pitta announced.”This organization drafted me and has always stood by me – especially during my difficult recovery last season – and for that, I am extremely grateful.”
Originally selected by Baltimore in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft, Pitta has played in 47 career games (eight “starts”), producing 122 receptions for 1,244 yards (10.2 avg.) and 11 touchdowns. In six playoff games (three starts), Pitta has registered 21 catches for 233 yards (11.1 avg.) and four touchdowns.
Despite missing the first 12 contests of the 2013 campaign after suffering a dislocated/fractured hip on the opening day of training camp, Pitta returned to action for the final four games, posting 20 receptions for 169 yards and one touchdown.
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