Just over two weeks after he was released by the Ravens, cornerback **Samari Rolle** decided to come back to the team.
Rolle, 32, was at Ravens headquarters in Owings Mills, Md., Monday to sign a new four-year contract that will likely keep him in purple and black for the rest of his career.
It was hardly a foregone conclusion, however. At the time, Rolle had been telling reporters for days that he was about to be waived, even though no official word came from Ravens officials.
Even after his release, general manager **Ozzie Newsome** left the possibility of a Rolle return open. The 11-year veteran took one free agent visit - to former Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and his New York Jets.
"At first, with all the rumors out there, I wasn't sure if I would ever be back in this building," Rolle told BaltimoreRavens.com. "It's been a few weeks, but eventually I knew that this was where I needed to be. I'm happy to be back with the Ravens."
Over his past four seasons in Baltimore, Rolle emerged as a stoic leader in the locker room and on the field.
Originally a second-round draft pick of the Tennessee Titans in 1998, Rolle inspired many in 2007 when he bravely fought an adverse reaction to epilepsy medication and came back to play during the season, earning the Ed Block Courage Award from his teammates.
In 2008, Rolle started 10 games and totaled 27 tackles, three interceptions and 13 passes defensed.
But, he was waived March 18 as the Ravens signed free agent cornerback **Domonique Foxworth** as a probable starter and **Chris Carr** as a nickel back.
Rolle hopes those pieces will couple with a solid base that reached the AFC Championship last season to advance one game further next year.
"They're laying a foundation here," explained Rolle. "We've lost some coaches and players, but we're a group that has been together for a while. Everybody has the same goals, especially after getting to where we did last year."
Rolle's veteran status will be key in the transition from Ryan to new defensive coordinator **Greg Mattison**, who previously was Baltimore's linebackers coach.
"Our relationship is good," stated Rolle. "I spoke with him over the weekend, and I think he's the perfect guy for the job. He's very thorough and doesn't over-coach. He's going to do some good things for us.
"The talent has always been here. I think everybody adapted quickly to head coach [John] Harbaugh's style, and I'm at the point in my career where it doesn't make sense to go move some place for a year or two."
Notable
Rolle is a big-time basketball fan, and weighed in with his thoughts about the North Carolina - Michigan State game Monday night that will decide the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship. "I think Michigan State will play tough early, but Carolina's going to wear them down," he said with a smile. "I think Carolina is going to prevail, 83-70." … Quarterback **Todd Bouman** officially signed his one-year contract.
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