Kind of a big deal

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens signed defensive tackle Haloti Ngata to a US$61-million, five-year contract on Tuesday.

His agent, Mike McCartney, said Ngata will get $40 million in the first two years of the deal. The All-Pro defensive tackle has 10 tackles, six solos, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

"It just feels awesome," Ngata said in a statement. "I won't have to worry about my family, my kids, with money problems. For me to be here another five years is great. Hopefully, I can be here and retire here."

"Haloti's re-signing is significant as we push to win consistently and battle for championships," Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "His leadership is not only integral to our defence, but also the entire team. This is another commitment from (owner) Steve Bisciotti making sure we keep our best players."

The deal came before Tuesday's NFL deadline to sign a multi-year contract or extension to a franchise player. Ngata headed into this season with a $12.4 million franchise tender that was fully guaranteed.

Ngata was selected 12th overall by the Ravens in the 2006 draft. The former Oregon player has 12 career sacks, three interceptions, three forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries.