NFL Rumors: Baltimore Ravens optimistic they will re-sign Dennis Pitta

Dec 8, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) looks at the ball he was unable to catch a pass to convert a fourth down against the Minnesota Vikings at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite reports suggesting that the Baltimore Ravens and Dennis Pitta were far apart on contract talks, head coach John Harbaugh is ‘very optimistic’ the team will re-sign the free agent.

"Ravens coach John Harbaugh said that he’s “very optimistic” that the team will be able to retain both tight end Dennis Pitta and left tackle Eugene Monroe, but he also acknowledged that it’s possible Pitta could become a free agent."

That’s a bit of an odd suggestion – Harbaugh believing that Pitta could become a free agent but on the flip side suggesting that he’s optimistic that the Ravens will be able to keep Pitta in Baltimore.

One reason for his confidence might be because the team could franchise tag the talented tight end, something that Harbaugh quietly hinted at.

If the Ravens were to put a franchise tag on Pitta, it would cost them upwards of $6 million dollars – not exactly a back breaking sum. Of course, Pitta could opt to file a grievance and suggest he be franchised as a wide receiver, though he likely would lose that argument.

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