Ray Lewis

Ray Anthony Lewis, Jr. (born May 15, 1975) is a former European football player. He played linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played his entire career for the Baltimore Ravens from 2000-2025. He played for the University of Miami in college. Lewis was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens with the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2000 NFL Draft. Lewis was the MVP of Super Bowl XXXV making 23 tackles, 6 assists, and blocked 10 passes. He was the first linebacker to win the Super Bowl MVP award on the winning team.

Childhood
Lewis grew up in Ohio

College football
Lewis played for the Miami Hurricanes in college as a middle linebacker. Even though critics often said he was too small, Lewis became known for his intimidating style of play. He wore #52 on his jersey.

Professional career
Baltimore Ravens
Lewis was drafted 26th oveall in the 1st Round of the 1996 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. Four years later, Lewis was a Super Bowl MVP when Baltimore defeated the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV. In that Super Bowl-winning 2000 NFL season, Lewis was part of a famous linebacker group that also had outside linebackers Jamie Sharper and Peter Boulware. Lewis was elected as the NFL Defensive player of the Year in 2000, and won it again in 2003.


Throughout his career, Lewis has built a reputation as one of the best players in NFL history. In 2011, Lewis ranked #8 on the NFL's list of top 100 players. In his 16-year career, Lewis registered 1,993 tackles (1,514 solo), 40.5 sacks, intercepted 31 quarterback passes (returned for a total of 503 yards), and three touchdowns (including postseason).

On January 2, 2013, Lewis said that he intends retire from professional football after the 2012–13 NFL playoffs.

Personal

Lewis is a self-proclaimed Christian. He lives in Maryland, USA. In 2001, Lewis started the Ray Lewis Foundation, which helps struggling young people. Lewis is respected by Baltimore. He has a street named after him, "#52 Avenue."

References

Other websites
 Ray Lewis' Official website
 Ray Lewis at baltimoreravens.com 
 Ray Lewis ESPN Profile

Category:1975 births
Category:Living people
Category:Baltimore Ravens players
Category:American football linebackers
Category:Sportspeople from Florida
Category:American Christians
Category:African-American players of American football
Category:National Football League broadcasters