Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore Ravens have secured a two-year, $7.5 million extension with Michael Pierce, preventing the starting nose tackle from becoming a free agent at the end of the season, a source familiar with the matter informed ESPN’s Field Yates on Saturday.
Pierce, 31, has been a reliable presence for the Ravens defense this season, starting every game and contributing to the team’s impressive performance. The Ravens currently hold the record for allowing the fewest points (16.4) and the fourth-fewest yards (302.1) in the NFL.
Originally signed by Baltimore in 2022 under a three-year, $16.5 million contract, Pierce restructured his deal in March, setting himself up to enter free agency in 2024. However, with the recent extension, Pierce will continue to be a crucial asset for the Ravens for the next two seasons.
In his seventh year in the league, Pierce has made significant strides in his game. He ranks third on the Ravens in run stop win rate at 36.9%, demonstrating his effectiveness in halting opposing running plays. Additionally, Pierce has recorded 19 pass-rush wins, the second-highest among Baltimore’s defensive linemen.
The Ravens’ focus now shifts to retaining Justin Madubuike, their standout defensive tackle who currently leads all NFL interior linemen with 13 sacks. Madubuike will become an unrestricted free agent after the season, making it a priority for Baltimore to secure his services moving forward.
With a 13-3 record, the Ravens have already secured the top seed in the AFC. They will face off against their archrivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in the regular-season finale on Saturday.
To summarize, the Baltimore Ravens have successfully extended the contract of Michael Pierce, bolstering their defensive line for the next two seasons. Pierce’s consistent performance and durability have proven valuable to the team, which has dominated defensively this year. The Ravens now shift their attention to re-signing Justin Madubuike as they continue their quest for success in the playoffs.