Lewis grew to love Baltimore, and vise versa

Ray Lewis

Ray Lewis on January 6, 2013 |  http://www.abc2news.com/gallery/news/news_photo_gallery/ravens-ray-lewis  Photograph from Getty Images
Copyright 2013 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Advertisement

Posted: 01/08/2013

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) -  

When Ray Lewis was selected in the first round of the 1996 NFL draft, he didn't even know the nickname of the team that drafted him.
 
   Lewis quickly became the face of the Baltimore Ravens, and the stellar middle linebacker will remain a beloved figure in Charm City long after he pulls off his No. 52 jersey for the final time.
 
   After moving from Cleveland in 1996, the Ravens made Lewis their second draft pick behind Jonathan Ogden. Lewis recalls asking general manager Ozzie Newsome, "What's our team name going to be? Who are we?"
 
   Lewis ended up playing 17 seasons with Baltimore while setting the tone for the team's rugged defense.
 
   The 37-year-old Lewis will retire after the Ravens' current playoff run. Baltimore (11-6) faces Denver (13-3) on Saturday.
 

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

  • Comments
Advertisement

Top Sports Headlines


  1. Blue Jays beat Orioles 12-6

    Blue Jays beat Orioles 12-6

    Edwin Encarnacion hit his fifth career grand slam, J.P. Arencibia homered and drove in four runs and the Toronto Blue Jays beat Baltimore 12-6 on Thursday night, spoiling the debut of Orioles right-hander Kevin Gausman.

    • Gausman to make Orioles debut Thursday

      • Orioles beat Yankees to end 6-game skid

        • Garcia sorry for "Fried Chicken" Remark

          • Thieves break into Ray Rice's home

            • Orioles recognized for style

              • Stay Connected