The Ravens remain in contract negotiations with NT Haloti Ngata. The two sides have exchanged proposals, but no deal is imminent per the Carroll County Times. A slimmed-down Ngata was dominant against the Steelers yesterday, racking up four tackles, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. He's among the top defensive linemen in the game.

GM Ozzie Newsome said contract extension talks with DT Haloti Ngata will begin in three or four days. Ngata is the Ravens' franchise player and will make $12.5 million on his one-year tender. Newsome can create cap room by locking up one of the game's best defenders on a long-term deal for less money annually. "As long as I can get that long-term contract, that's what I'm shooting for," Ngata said.

The Ravens and DT Haloti Ngata remain likely to work out a contract extension early in free agency. Franchised in March, Ngata is set to make a burdensome $12.5 million in 2011. No longer hindered by the 30 percent rule, the National Football Post estimates the Ravens could free up nearly $6 million in cap space this season by working out a long-term deal with their elite defensive tackle.

Ravens DT Haloti Ngata has dropped 25 pounds from his previous 350-pound playing weight. Ngata has become more focused in his workout program with the goal of becoming a leaner, faster pass-rushing presence on the inside. "I've watched film and thought I missed some tackles," said Ngata. "I have to work on putting myself in better position to make those tackles." He has a good chance to better last year's career-high 5.5 sacks.