The NFL will lose a legend next year when Ray Lewis of the Baltimore Ravens, retires. Lewis, a University of Miami graduate, was the 26th pick in the first round in the 1996 NFL Draft. He was widely known as one of the best linebackers ever to play the game and has put up some big numbers in his career. His record stands at 2061 tackles, 1567 being solo, 42 sacks, 19 forced fumbles, and 31 interceptions. He also has bragging rights to defensive touchdowns, a very unusual stat for linebackers.
Lewis was battling back from a forearm injury this past week, but the star linebacker would not let that hold him back. He played the Broncos-Ravens game like it was the most important game of his career. The Ravens, of course, came out on top, and moved their record to 12-6 with the win against the Broncos 38-35. Now Lewis will have another chance to prove who he really is and leave yet another lasting impression on NFL fans.
Lewis has also left a lasting impression on many of the people who he has played with and against including Peyton Manning, quarterback for the Broncos, who had something to say to Ray Lewis after facing his team on the field. As Lewis was the leaving the locker room he found Peyton and his wife waiting for him. Peyton’s wife, Ashley Manning, called out to Ray,” I’m so happy for you.” Peyton then gave Lewis a huge hug and talked quietly with him for sometime. Publicly Peyton said,” If I wanted anyone to win the Super Bowl other than us, it would be Baltimore, because of Ray.”
Lewis has built a reputation as a leader and an intimidating force at the middle linebacker spot. Outside of his career as a professional football player, Lewis has also built a solid reputation around his Ray Lewis 52 foundation, which is a nonprofit organization he established to give assistance to disadvantaged young people. For his work with the foundation Lewis has been awarded the J.B award, which is named in honor of the CBS broadcaster and Harvard graduate James Brown. Brown then went on to be a CBS broadcaster and a notable humanitarian. The award is named after him, given to those who commit charitable acts.
Since his rookie year, Lewis has also won numerous NFL awards, including being twice named the Defensive Player of the Year, as well as being named Super Bowl MVP. Ray is also a 13-time Pro Bowler. He has been named AP First Team All- Pro player and was a two time All- American in college.
Ray Lewis is a great football player and a great man whose presence will be greatly missed in the NFL. He is categorized as one of the best linebackers and as one of the best players to ever play the game of football. Ray and the Baltimore Ravens will be competing in the AFC Championship game versus a tough Patriots team led by Tom Brady, on Sunday, January 20, at 6:30 p.m. Eastern time.