BALTIMORE -- The Baltimore Ravens agreed in principle Thursday to a one-year extension with quarterback Kyle Boller, who started 34 games during his first three seasons before settling into a backup role last year.
Boller's contract was to expire after this season. The extension will keep him in Baltimore through 2008 and end speculation that the Ravens were about to sign Byron Leftwich, who was released by Jacksonville this week.
"This is good news for us," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "We have said all along how important Kyle is to this team, and this secures him for at least another season."
Boller has played in 41 games, including five as a backup to Steve McNair last year -- a role he will resume his season. Boller was originally selected by the Ravens in the first round (19th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft.
He has completed 578 of 1,036 career passes for 6,103 yards and 36 touchdowns and is 18-16 as a starter.
"I am ecstatic," Boller said. "Baltimore is the place I really want to be. The Ravens have the best organization in the NFL, and I feel very fortunate that I'm going to continue to be a part of it. ... I'm thankful for the confidence they've shown in me, and hopefully, I can play here for a long time."
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