Traded to the Detroit Lions last week in exchange for fourth- and fifth-round NFL draft picks, former Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata took out a full-page advertisement in Sunday's edition of The Baltimore Sun.
The ad included a letter from Ngata thanking the city of Baltimore, the Ravens and their fans for his nine years with franchise, which included five Pro Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl XLVII championship.
The advertisement included a black-and-white photograph of Ngata running out during a pregame introduction, holding his finger above his head.
Here's the full text of Ngata's letter:
Dear Baltimore,
Although my playing days have come to an end here in Baltimore, my family and I want to say an enormous thank you to the great people in this city and to members of Ravens Nation everywhere. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to play for the Baltimore Ravens for the last nine years and to hear you passionately cheering us on each-and-every week.
I want you to know how much I appreciate the way you welcomed me in and made me a part of the Baltimore community. When I came to Baltimore as a rookie, I did not know anyone in Maryland. And, yet, for nearly a decade, you provided the perfect place for me to develop as a player, grow as a man, start a life with my wife, raise my three boys, make friendships that will last a lifetime, and have experiences I will treasure forever.
I would like to thank the Modell family for their ever-lasting support; Mr. Steve Bisciotti for his great leadership in the Ravens' organization; Mr. Ozzie Newsome for drafting me and bringing me to the Ravens; Coach Brian Billick for coaching me during my early years; and Coach John Harbaugh for teaching us to "Play Like a Raven," and coaching us to the ultimate goal: Super Bowl XLVII champions! To each coach and each staff member at the Ravens' facility, past and present: thank you. I could not have had the career I did in Baltimore without your help.
I also need to thank my brothers-in-arms. I have played with the best teammates any athlete could ask for.Thank you for pushing me to become the best player I could be.The things we have accomplished together as Baltimore Ravens will link us together forever with a bond that cannot be broken.
Last, I want to give a public shout-out to my brothers and sister. Thank you for your undying love and support. Mom and Dad are proud when they look down on us from above.
I am looking forward to the experiences that await my family and me in the future, but please know that I will carry a part of Ravens Nation with me in my heart wherever I go for the rest of my life.
Ofa Lahi Atu,
