Saying Goodbye To A Legend: Honoring Ray Lewis

At 6'1" 240 lbs., he is a tackling machine, team leader, mentor, and in four years a first ballot Hall of Famer. Ray Lewis was a Middle Linebacker out of the U (University of Miami) that was classified as undersized and overvalued. Players like Jermane Mayberry, Walt Harris, Tim Biakabituka, and Lawrence Phillips were all taken over him in the 1996 NFL Draft. He then went on to win Defensive Player of the year (twice), and played in 13 Pro Bowls.

I remember watching Superbowl XXXV, and being witness to a star being born. Ray Lewis possibly has two games left in his remarkable career. I know if New England has anything to say about it, Sunday will be his last game, but that is why we play the games. While Ray Lewis has had his ups and downs, and off-field issues, it is hard not to respect him as a player. Say what you will about Ray Lewis, but take away his leadership, raw talent, the Superbowl ring, and all the numbers... and you still have a loyal, dedicated, and determined competitor.

-  Stephen Moul

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