Ravens get Earl Thomas on reported 4-year, $55M deal

The Baltimore Ravens took a massive step toward restoring their top-ranked defense by signing star safety Earl Thomas, the team announced Wednesday.

Thomas will receive a four-year, $55-million contract that includes $32 million fully guaranteed, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Baltimore made the move after watching safety Eric Weddle, linebacker C.J. Mosley, and pass-rushers Terrell Suggs and Za'Darius Smith all leave their No. 1 defense in free agency.

Thomas spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Seattle Seahawks, where he established himself as the league's gold standard for safeties. He had a falling out with Seahawks brass last year, as he failed to land the long-term extension he sought and was forced to play out his contract year.

Thomas then fractured his leg early in the season, ending his campaign after just four games. He flipped off his own sideline as he was carted off the field in Arizona.

A six-time Pro Bowler, Thomas recorded 22 tackles and three interceptions in four games last year before the season-ending injury. He racked up 28 picks in 125 career games with the Seahawks, serving as the anchor of the "Legion of Boom." Thomas also helped Seattle capture Super Bowl XLVIII.

The Ravens are slated to face the Seahawks in Seattle next year, giving the 29-year-old ball hawk an opportunity for revenge against his old club.

Baltimore hadn't previously been reported as a possible landing spot for Thomas.