Report: Justin Houston Takes Less Money to Sign with Ravens

Free agent pass rusher Justin Houston is reportedly signing a one-year, $4 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, and taking less money than he was offered elsewhere to do so, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Former All-Pro edge rusher Justin Houston reached agreement on a one-year deal worth up to $4 million with the Baltimore Ravens, per sources. Houston turned down significantly more money from other teams in order to pursue a championship with the Ravens, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 31, 2021

According to CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora, Houston turned down a larger offer from another AFC North team, but ultimately reached to the Ravens himself looking to sign for less money.

La Canfora had reported earlier this month that the Pittsburgh Steelers were interested in acquiring Houston’s services, but found themselves on the outside looking in. The teamed signed pass rusher Melvin Ingram on shortly thereafter.

After turning down multiple offers from many teams, including a more lucrative package from an AFC North club, Justin Houston reached out to John Harbaugh this week to convey a willingness to come to Baltimore – his top choice -for considerably less than market. Seems like a fit

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) July 31, 2021

Baltimore lost pass rushers Yannick Ngakoue and Matthew Judon in free agency, but did re-sign outside linebacker Tyus Bowser.

The addition of Houston should provide production and much needed experience to a youthful group of edge rushers.

Originally a third round selection of Kansas City in 2011, Houston played the first eight seasons of his career with the Chiefs. He was selected to four Pro Bowls and earned a First-Team All-Pro nod in 2014 after posting a league-leading 22 sacks.

Houston has remained productive since moving on to Indianapolis in 2019. He has recorded 19 sacks and 21 tackles-for-loss over the last two seasons combined.