The Ravens have re-signed veteran running back Justin Forsett to three-year contract that averages about $3 million per year, according to NFL sources.
Forsett also drew interest from the Atlanta Falcons, Washington Redskins, Indianapolis Colts and Oakland Raiders
"Sometimes you have fortunate signings in this business, and Justin was one of those," general manager Ozzie Newsome said in a statement. "We were fortunate because he became such a vital part of our on-field success and quickly became a steadying influence in the locker room at an uneasy time for us. He gave us more than we anticipated. From what we expected, he gave us unprecedented production."
Forsett revitalized the Ravens' running game last season as he rushed for a career-high 1,266 yards and eight touchdowns as the replacement for former Pro Bowl running back Ray Rice.
Forsett was named to the Pro Bowl as an alternate. His one-year, $730,000 contract had expired.
"I would love to stay here. I want to be here in Baltimore," Forsett told The Baltimore Sun this month. "They gave me my shot, gave me my opportunity. But then again, there's that business side we have to work out. I'm praying that everything works out."
The Ravens are expected to pair Forsett with a young running back. They met with Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, Northern Iowa's David Johnson and Miami's Duke Johnson at the NFL scouting combine. The Ravens also have reserve running backs Bernard Pierce and Lorenzo Taliaferro under contract.
"He fits well into what we do on offense, and he handles all parts of the job effectively, including blocking and receiving," Newsome said. "I mentioned this a few weeks ago when we met with the media: Justin is a tremendous leader by example and willing to step up as both a leader and mentor. He is truly a success story, and we're happy he'll continue that with us. He earned his new contract."
The 5-foot-8, 197-pound former Cal standout thrived in former offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak's zone running system, ranking fifth in the NFL in rushing. He led the NFL with a Ravens-record 17 runs of 20 yards or more.
"I want to build upon it," said Forsett, who led the NFL with a 5.4 average per carry and also caught 44 passes for 263 yards. "I want to be great. I didn't come in this league to be a one-year wonder. Every time I got an opportunity I was able to seize it and I want to continue to do that."