Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta has stated that his friendship with quarterback Joe Flacco played a role in him agreeing a new deal with the franchise.

The offensive duo are close off the field, regularly spending time together away from football and holidaying with their families during the off-season.

Despite their relationship, Pitta has admitted that the pair did not discuss his contract while socialising.

Speaking to the club's official website, Pitta said: "Friendship is certainly a factor. You want to go into a situation where first and foremost you're comfortable.

"We really didn't talk a lot about contracts and all of that. Joe wanted me to stay as much as I wanted to stay. We have a great friendship and a good chemistry on the field, which is important. We can kind of continue to build off that and kind of pick up where we left off. It's exciting to be part of it.

"It was something I certainly wanted for my career and I'm sure he enjoys the fact that I'm staying."

Pitta signed his $32m (£19m), five-year contract on Saturday.