The Ravens are going to have some new, yet familiar, voices in the radio booth this season.
Four former Ravens – tight ends Dennis Pitta and Todd Heap, running back Justin Forsett and linebacker Jarret Johnson – will be color analysts for 98 Rock/WBAL News Radio 1090 this year.
Pitta will take the Ravens' first four games, followed by Heap, Forsett and Johnson for four games each. They'll join play-by-play announcer Gerry Sandusky and color analyst Stan White.
"Todd, Jarret, Dennis and Justin are several all-time fan favorites," Ravens President Dick Cass stated. "Much of our franchise's success was built on the terrific contributions they made – both on the field and in the Baltimore community.
"In addition to their special ability to connect with people, each provides a unique perspective and energy that will translate to the radio booth and complement Gerry and Stan well."
Pitta's move to the booth is a clear signal that his NFL playing days are over after suffering a third major hip injury. Pitta went down during Organized Team Activities in early June and was released by the Ravens five days later.
He played all six years of his career in Baltimore (2010-2016), was a big factor in the team's Super Bowl XLVII victory, and led all NFL tight ends in receptions (86) last season. He would have likely been the team's starter this season had it not been for the injury.
Pitta's intimate knowledge of the Ravens' current roster, and best friend Joe Flacco, gives him a unique perspective. He's also known around the Under Armour Performance Center for his quick and witty sense of humor.
Heap was the Ravens' first-round pick in 2001 after they won Super Bowl XXXV, and played 10 seasons in Baltimore, including two Pro Bowl years.
The Ring of Honor inductee retired after the 2012 season (after two years spent with the Arizona Cardinals) as the Ravens' all-time franchise touchdowns leader (41). Heap ranks second in Ravens career receptions (467) and receiving yards (5,492).
Beloved by fans and teammates for his warm personality and smart perspective, Heap already has some experience in the broadcast booth.
Forsett spent two-plus seasons with the Ravens from 2014-2016. He went to the Pro Bowl following a breakout 2014 campaign under former Ravens Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubiak, in which Forsett ran for 1,266 yards and eight touchdowns and caught 44 passes for 263 yards.
He quickly became a highly-respected and influential voice in the locker room, known for his positive attitude and love of his faith and teammates.
Johnson spent nine seasons with the Ravens (2003-2011) before finishing his career with the San Diego Chargers. One of the toughest players to ever wear the Ravens uniform, Johnson did the dirty work in some of the greatest Ravens defenses and for six playoff teams. He holds the franchise's all-time record for most consecutive games played (192) by an offensive or defensive player.
"Double-J" is a no-nonsense player and personality who knows the game inside and out and is not bashful in speaking his mind. He was long one of reporters' go-to interviews because of the way he could articulate the game.
"We are excited to expand our comprehensive Ravens radio coverage with the addition of these outstanding gentlemen," said Cary L. Pahigian, the President and General Manager of WBAL-AM and 98 Rock.
"Dennis, Todd, Justin and Jarret will provide a unique perspective and insight. No doubt our broadcast team, led by Gerry Sandusky, is the NFL's very best."
