Ravens sign top pick Upshaw

OWINGS MILLS, M.d. (AP) - The Baltimore Ravens have signed their entire rookie draft class, including top pick Courtney Upshaw.      

The majority of the contracts were finalized Thursday, one day before the start of a three-day rookie minicamp    

Upshaw, a standout outside linebacker from Alabama, was the 35th overall selection in the draft. He received a four-year contract worth nearly $5.3 million, including a $2.292 million bonus.        

He is projected as an immediate starter because Pro Bowl linebacker Terrell Suggs will be sidelined for a major portion of the season with a torn Achilles tendon that required surgery.    

Upshaw recorded 9½ sacks last season for the Crimson Tide with 51 tackles, 17 for losses, and one interception, earning All-American honors. For his career, Upshaw had 140 tackles and 16½ sacks.