The Baltimore Ravens Tuesday re-signed veteran TE Billy Bajema after terminating the contract of vested veteran FB Vonta Leach, general manager and executive vice president Ozzie Newsome announced.
"We've had lots of discussion in the past week with Vonta and his agent, and both parties agreed that it was best to terminate Vonta's contract," Newsome stated. "He played a significant role in helping us get to the AFC Championship game in 2011 and win the Super Bowl last season. He added to our toughness and will to win, plus he provided leadership. He's a good football player. There could be an opportunity for him to return to the Ravens once he explores the free agent market, and we could re-visit this before or during training camp."
A nine-year veteran, Leach played two seasons (2011-12) with the Ravens, earning Pro Bowl honors in each. In 2012, the overall three-time Pro Bowler operated as a lead blocker for a Baltimore offense that scored the most points (398) and produced the second-most total yards per game (352.5) in franchise history.
While with the Ravens, Leach recorded 21 rushing attempts for 67 yards and one touchdown, adding 36 catches for 212 yards. Leach was also instrumental in helping RB Ray Riceearn back-to-back Pro Bowl accolades from 2011-12.
The 6-foot, 260-pound fullback has also played for the Houston Texans (2006-10), New Orleans Saints (2006) and Green Bay Packers (2004-06).
Entering his ninth NFL season, Bajema played for the Ravens in 2012, seeing action in eight regular season games (one start) and all four playoff contests. Though he did not record a catch last season, Bajema served primarily as a blocking tight end in run situations.
In his career, the 6-4, 259-pounder has posted 38 catches for 398 yards and two touchdowns. Prior to his time in Baltimore, Bajema played for the St. Louis Rams (2009-11) and San Francisco 49ers (2005-08), who selected him in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft.
