Lewis has built a reputation throughout his career as the undeniable heart and soul of the Ravens, and one of the toughest players ever to step out on the field.
When Lewis broke into the league many draft experts saw his size as a disadvantage. What they didn’t realize is that it was what was inside Lewis as a competitor that really mattered.
Lewis was drafted 26th overall by the Ravens in 1996, and he immediately made an impression. Combining speed and power, Lewis was able to change the course of many games throughout his career with either one big play, or a bone crushing hit.
Being the first player to be drafted by the Ravens in their inaugural season, Lewis had to establish a new team identity, and transformed the Ravens into one of the most physical and intimidating defensive units of all time. Baltimore has been near the top of every defensive category for over a decade, and when teams line up to play against them, they know they’re going to see 52 flying around the field.
During his extremely productive career, Lewis has led the Ravens in tackles during 12 seasons, named to 13 pro-bowls and defensive player of the year twice (2000, 2003).
With the help of Lewis, Baltimore also won the Super Bowl in 2000, and has been credited with one of the best defensive seasons in NFL history. During Baltimore’s super bowl run in 2000, Lewis led a defense which set records for fewest points allowed in a season (165), fewest rushing yards allowed (970), and four shut-outs. Lewis was also named Super Bowl MVP for his performance in the biggest game of them all.
Lewis’s former defensive coordinator and long-time Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis had nothing but praise for what Lewis is able to do on the field, for not just himself but teammates as well. “It’s just time and time again that he ran guys down and made plays you didn’t think was possible,” said Lewis’s former coach.
“I think you have to look at the measure of the man over the period of time, and have to understand what he has meant, and how he has empowered everybody around him to be a better player.”
Lewis is about much more than big plays and big hits. When he steps on the field, his goal is to overwhelm offenses and break their spirit and desire to compete. “What determines who is better or not is the heart. Am I just trying to get there to make a play? Or am I trying to get there to break your will,” Lewis said.
Even in the twilight of his career Lewis is still feared by the majority of NFL players. According to a recent poll by Sports Illustrated, Lewis is still considered one of the most feared players in the NFL, placing second, behind Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison.
Now 36, many are wondering how much more time Lewis has left in a league he has made a huge impression on. Looking for one more championship before he calls it a career, Lewis will again lead the Ravens into battle this Sunday against the New England Patriots (14-3) for a chance to play in Super Bowl XLVI.
He admitted back in training camp that if the Ravens won the Super Bowl, he would consider retirement. You would bet Lewis will give whatever it takes for one more shot at glory.
“The only reason you play this game is for the opportunity to go to the Super Bowl,” said Lewis. “We have that opportunity right now. Whatever anybody wants to say about us we are in position. There are two teams left in the AFC, just us and the Patriots.”
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