OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Releasing tight end Dennis Pitta on Wednesday was an inevitable decision for the Baltimore Ravens. It just wasn't an easy one.
Pitta will be remembered as one of the franchise's best tight ends and someone with a relentless will to play the game he loves.
His clutch plays in the red zone and on third downs helped the Ravens win a Super Bowl. His determination after two hip surgeries led to a remarkable season last year.
"Dennis is one of the great Ravens," general manager Ozzie Newsome said, "and he has done everything he can to make our team better.