Ray Lewis-Tribute To A Legend

REMEMBERING AN ICON

When it comes to grits and determination, they are only two of many words that could decribed former Baltimore Raven linebacker Ray Lewis. Ethics and hard work? Leadership and intellect? Purity and ability? Yes, they all describe Ray Lewis and you could probably find 1,000 more. After 17 Hall of Fame years for the Ravens, Lewis has finally called it quits. Then and now, we take a look back at one of the greatest athletes to play the game.

Lewis began to be noticed all around the country as a freshman linebacker for the Miami Hurricanes. In his freshman year, he recorded 81 tackles and 2 sacks. Lewis won freshman honors despite starting only 5 games. He really turned heads as a sophomore and junior, recording 154 and 160 tackles respectively. He led the Big East in tackles both seasons. Going into the 1996 NFL draft, Lewis was considered to be at the top of the linebacker class.

Despite his agility, speed, and football IQ, many doubted that Ray would be a starter in the NFL. This doubt would only add fire to his determination. Four linebackers were drafted before the Baltimore Ravens chose Ray Lewis with the 26th pick in the NFL draft. For the new franchise, it would turn out to be their best pick to date.

All the doubters were proved wrong as Ray Lewis quickly became a dominant force as a rookie. In just his second season, Lewis recorded 184 tackles, 4 sacks, and 1 interception. It was enough to earn his first Pro Bowl appearance. A few years later, Lewis anchored a defense that many called the best in NFL history. The Baltimore Ravens then won their first championship in SuperBowl XXXV as Lewis was named SuperBowl MVP. Lewis was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 2000.

One of the greatest records in NFL history is the streak that Baltimore put up during 51 consecutive games. The Ravens defense played 51 straight games, 1998-2001,  without allowing a 100 yard rusher. In 2000, the Raven defense only gave up 165 points and only 970 rushing yards for an entire season. In 2003, Lewis won his second Defensive Player of the Year Award. For the next decade, the Baltimore defense would prevail as one of the best defensive units ever equipped. Since 2000, Baltimore has been a continuous SuperBowl contender. Any fan knows, if defense is mentioned, you think about Baltimore.

Any NFL fan would appreciate the battles between Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Every game they have played is physical and well worth watching. If you ever watched these two teams play, you know exactly what I mean. Lewis was and still is a motivator. Ray brings so much fuel and emotion to his team. Due to this, Lewis had the ability to make players better. He was an on-the-field coach and his dedication to the game will be seen forever.

Having the chance to watch Ray Lewis for his entire 17 year career has been a highlight of my life. He has touched many and inspired the rest of us. When I watched Ray play, I saw him give 100% always. Lewis was a true professional, a gentlemen's man. He was a warrior on the field, but when the final whistle blew, he was a friend. The love and passion that he had for the game is undeniable. He gave the NFL and the fans all he could. As a fan of the NFL, I appreciate that. I know certainly, there will never be another Ray Lewis.

Lewis finished with 2,061 tackles, 41.5 sacks, and 31 interceptions. Lewis played 21 playoff games and recorded 214 tackles, 2 sacks, and 2 interceptions. In 2012, Lewis suffered from injuries and only started 6 games. He came back in the first round of the playoffs when Baltimore took on the Indianapolis Colts. In arguably his best post season performance, Lewis led the team with 51 total tackles in just 4 games. When the dust cleared, he went out in style as Superbowl XLVII champions as Baltimore defeated the San Francisco 49ers. In total, Lewis was selected to 13 Pro Bowls.

We will be seeing Ray Lewis sooner then later as he signed on with ESPN in March. It will be great to hear his voice and see him again, even though it won't be on the field. Ray Lewis was the best to ever play the position. He is an inspiration and the way he lives his life inspires. He is one of a kind and never could be replaced. Ray, thanks for all the memories. Worthy of note, Lewis has also done a lot of charity work and continues to work with his foundation. Ray has a beautiful heart and soul. The player is gone, but a legend is born.