PACKERS DEFENSIVE LINEMAN RAJI TAKES “HIATUS” FROM NFL

milwaukee » Defensive lineman B. J. Raji said Monday he was taking a “hiatus” from the NFL and would not play in 2016 after seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers.

“This decision was made after hours of conversation with close family members and mentors and considerable self- introspection and is one in which I am absolutely certain,” Raji said in a statement. “I cannot rule out a return to the NFL in the future, but I will definitely not be playing during the 2016 season.”

Raji became a free agent after having a good season in 2015 with 22 tackles in 15 regular- season games. He bounced back last season after missing 2014 with a biceps injury.

Raji was also a free agent a year ago, but settled for a one- year, $ 1.75 million contract to return to the Packers following the injury.

He returned to form as a run- stopper in the middle of the defense. A training regimen that included yoga improved his flexibility. The personable Raji was also a respected presence in the locker room.

• The Baltimore Ravens and safety Eric Weddle agreed to terms on a four- year contract.

An all- pro in 2011 and 2014, Weddle had spent his entire nine- year career with the San Diego Chargers.

One of the longest- tenured Chargers, Weddle started in 13 games in 2015 and missed three with a groin injury. But he felt disrespected that the team didn’t offer him a contract extension.

• The Tampa Bay Buccaneers resigned safety Chris Conte and agreed to a contract with free- agent cornerback Josh Robinson, who played four seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.

• Free- agent linebacker Daren Bates signed with the Oakland Raiders after playing his first three seasons with the Rams.