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Ravens reward All-Pro safety with a record contract extension 
Baltimore Ravens strong safety Kyle Hamilton. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Ravens reward All-Pro safety with a record contract extension 

In an effort to keep their defense strong for years to come, the Baltimore Ravens locked up a key member of their secondary to a record contract. 

On Wednesday afternoon, the Ravens announced signing safety Kyle Hamilton to a four-year extension worth over $100M with $82M guaranteed. Hamilton's new deal makes him the highest-paid safety in NFL history. 

Hamilton's extension demolishes the previous record for a safety of $45M guaranteed.

"I think the deal speaks to how we feel about Kyle — highest paid safety in the NFL," Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a press conference to discuss the news. 

"That's a responsibility we don't take lightly. We've had a few players over the years become the highest paid at their position, and I think when you're the highest paid, that's an important distinction. And I think Kyle's proven he's going to carry that very well, and we expect him to continue to be an impact player on our defense for years to come."

And while Hamilton's contract may seem like a lot for a safety, or a non quarterback for that matter, if any secondary player is deserving, it's Hamilton. 

Entering his fourth NFL season, Hamilton, 24, has been a stud since the Ravens drafted him out of Notre Dame with the 14th overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. 

"It's a dream come true," said Hamilton about his new deal.

Already a two-time Pro Bowler, Hamilton is coming off his second All-Pro season. Statistically, he's already recorded 250 total tackles, seven sacks, four forced fumbles with one recovery, 27 pass deflections, five picks and even a defensive touchdown. 

If any fanbase is going to appreciate dominant play from a safety, it's Baltimore fans who watched Ed Reed wreck games week after week for over a decade. And if any franchise is going to appreciate a dominant safety, it's the Ravens. 

The Ravens also knew they need a happy Hamilton around if they're going to hope to get over the hump and reach the franchise's first Super Bowl since the 2012 season. Hamilton is as confident as anyone this year's Ravens team can accomplish just that. 

"If we got Lamar Jackson, we've got a chance." 

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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