HEADLINE NEWS - News

Tuesday - 5/7/2001

The Baltimore Ravens have re-signed nine-time Pro Bowl safety Rod Woodson to a five-year contract. Woodson, who became a Pro Bowler for the second time as a safety last season, gives the Ravens all but one starter back from their record-setting defense last year.

"My main priority was to stay in Baltimore," said Woodson. "I've had fun here. We built a good chemistry, and you can't take that for granted. Being a mentor has been my role for the past three years, and I'm more than willing to do my part to help the team."

Woodson enters his 15th year in the NFL, his third with the Ravens. Last year he was second on the team with four interceptions, and finished with 82 tackles, four fumble recoveries, a forced fumble and 10 passes defensed.

"Rod's zest to be the best both on and off the field helps our guys tremendously," said defensive coordinator Marvin Lewis. "He keeps the calm in the huddle on the field in the heat of the battle. He'll become a great role model for Gary Baxter. The deal is a huge positive for our football team."