The Ravens have signed running back Justin Forsett to a one-year deal.
Baltimore was looking to add to its running back corps this offseason. Ray Rice's recent legal troubles, which could lead to a suspension, was also a consideration, according to Head Coach John Harbaugh. Forsett joins Rice and Bernard Pierce.
"We're very excited about Justin and what he's done in his career," Harbaugh said.
"He's the kind of guy that is a very versatile player. He's got great hands, does a great job in pass protection. Obviously, he can run the ball as a running back. He also contributes on special teams. He's just a very versatile football player and has had a lot of success since he came into the league."
Forsett, 28, is a 5-foot-8, 194-pound quick back. The former 2008 seventh-round pick out of the University of California is entering his seventh season and will be joining his fifth team.
He spent the 2012 season with the Houston Texans and new Ravens Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubiak, which gives him an understanding of Kubiak's system that he can pass along to the other running backs.
"I'm here for that, as well as being able to compete on the field," Forsett said.
With the Texans in 2012, Forsett ran 63 times for 374 yards (a career-high 5.9 yards per carry) and one touchdown, an 81-yard score. He caught three passes for 38 yards.
Kubiak and his offense were big reasons why Forsett decided to sign with the Ravens. He said Baltimore was one of the first teams that contacted him when he became a free agent.
"I had a ton of success there in Houston with him," Forsett said.
"I'm excited about the system; I've been in the West Coast offense, zone running scheme for most of my career. So, it just fits what I do, where I like to be and where I'm familiar. So, it was a no-brainer."
Forsett spent 2013 with the Jacksonville Jaguars after inking a two-year deal. Playing through injuries, he suited up for just nine games and had a career-low six carries for 31 yards. He was placed on injured reserve in December with a broken foot and released on March 11.
"I definitely have a chip on my shoulder the size of Texas that I want to get off," Forsett said.
"I had a lot of injuries and a lot of adversity last year being in Jacksonville. It made me stronger, definitely a better man, and I'm excited to release everything that I have in me out on this field."
