Ravens part ways with re-injured tight end Dennis Pitta

Jan 1, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals inside linebacker Nick Vigil (59) in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals inside linebacker Nick Vigil (59) in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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We kind of knew this was coming, the Baltimore Ravens have released Dennis Pitta, who re-injured his hip during OTA’s

According to multiple reports the Baltimore Ravens have released Dennis Pitta. The move was bound to happen eventually. Jamison Hensley of ESPN reports that the move creates some much needed cap space: 

"“This move clears $2.5 million in much-needed cap space for the Ravens, who could be looking to add a wide receiver in the coming days. Baltimore didn’t have to give an injury settlement to Pitta because he signed a waiver after fracturing his hip in 2013 and 2014.”"

Hensley of course is referring to the excitement building about Jeremy Maclin and Eric Decker recently becoming available. It’s starting to sound like Maclin is going to Buffalo, though there’s nothing determined on that front. The Ravens may be revving up to a trade for Decker. Decker won’t come cheap, but the team probably doesn’t want to see him his the open market.

Must Read: Why Eric Decker would be perfect fit in Baltimore

The story here, however is that Pitta’s days with the Baltimore Ravens are over. At this point, all we can do is speculate about the Ravens intentions. Pitta was a good Ravens player. Nobody wanted this to happen. After a third major hip injury though, what else could the Ravens do?

The Ravens have been incredibly patient with Pitta. They have actively rooted for him as an organization. There is a lot of love for number 88 in Baltimore. There is a lot of love for him from the fans, from his teammates and from everyone in the franchise.

Pitta recorded 86 receptions in 2016, after most pundits figured he’d never get to play again. Pitta overcame unbelievable odds to even step on the field last season. Most people would have quit, or simply given in to the circumstance. Pitta kept fighting. It’s admirable and it’s noble. When Pitta re-injured himself, it was absolutely heartbreaking.

Next: Top 5 Dennis Pitta moments

Dennis Pitta, we salute you. It’s been an absolute pleasure rooting for you. We’ll never forget what you gave to this team. All good things come to an end, but you’ll always have fans here at The Ebony Bird.