Why The Baltimore Ravens Have Secured The Future By Locking Up Terrell Suggs

The Baltimore Ravens have faced a transition period this offseason.

The team lost linebacker Bart Scott, backup safety Jim Leonhard, and defensive coordinator Rex Ryan.

Earlier this week, Derrick Mason reportedly retired, leaving a giant hole in the passing game (still trying to be worked out).

Many say it's because of a contract dispute that was not resolved on the Ravens' part, who apparently did not want to give Mason the three-year contract he wanted.

For those not familiar with the Ravens' organization, the front office does not throw out big bucks that often, nor do they give in to players demands. They make their offer, and if the player is not interested, both parties move on.

The Ravens were in a situation all offseason with linebacker Terrell Suggs; but when it was all said and done on Wednesday, Raven fans can say with relief that there is security in the defense.

Security in the defense? How is that?

After all, with Ray Lewis getting up in age, many feel that the dominant defense of the Ravens could be coming to an end.

Not so fast. The Baltimore Ravens and Terrell Suggs agreed on a six year, $63 million dollar contract, with $38 million guaranteed. History was made today with this deal, as Suggs becomes the highest-paid linebacker ever in the NFL.

On the one hand, some question the move, as it is felt there are better linebackers out there than Suggs.

Can you blame the Ravens for making this move, however?

In seven seasons with the team, Suggs has recorded 369 tackles, 17 forced fumbles, five interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, and most importantly, 53 sacks.

He has lived up to the hype of being a key contributor to the Ravens' defense, and earned himself a new deal that puts him near the top of the league's list of elite linebackers.

Suggs is more valued thn other linebackers for his size and great speed.

During the course of the 2008 season, Terrell lined up as a defensive end, recording eight sacks and bringing the pressure to the opposing offensive line.

A key component in this year's playoff run, the health of Suggs in the AFC Championship game surely influenced the outcome, with one of the games top pass-rushers being ineffective.

By locking up Suggs for a six-year deal, the Ravens can build around a new face of a franchise and look to stay at a playoff level in the forseeable future.

Matt Miselis is a writer for BleacherReport.com