OWINGS MILLS -- Following a rough stretch with the St. Louis Rams marked by losing and injuries, former Pro Bowl quarterback Marc Bulger is adjusting to a new backup role with the Baltimore Ravens.

A two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Rams, Bulger had started for the past seven years.

Now, he'll be backing up established young starter Joe Flacco after signing a one-year, $3.8 million contract and passing his physical this week.

"It should be a different role, but it was made clear to me up front that would be my role there," Bulger said today during a conference call. "I understand whatever capacity I can help Joe, I'll do it. It's just about helping us win football games."

With the Rams, Bulger passed for 122 touchdowns and 93 interceptions.

Because he wasn't released until late this spring, job prospects for Bulger dried up.

Ultimately, he signed with the Ravens after agreeing to an incentive-laden deal that can be worth up to $5.3 million.

"It was obvious the longer they held onto me, the more opportunities were taken by other players," Bulger said. "There's no hard feelings. They had to do what was best for the Rams."

Bulger said he's familiar with the offense and will be ready to step in if needed.

Bulger has never met Flacco before, but said he looks forward to getting to know him.

He emphasized that he doesn't plan to offer too much advice to Flacco unless it's solicited.

"I don't want to be the guy who comes in and thinks I know it all," Bulger said. "I'm going to let Joe let me know how much input he wants me to give. I just don't want to be the know-it-all backup.

"It's real easy to stand in the background and stand on the sideline. I'll leave it up to Joe how much help he wants, but I'll be there for anything he needs."

Bulger emphasized that he's healthy now after ending last season on injured reserve with a broken leg.