Early Life and Education of Ray Lewis: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ray Lewis, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ray Lewis is a former American professional football linebacker renowned for his 17-year career with the Baltimore Ravens. A standout player, he earned All-America honors at the University of Miami before becoming a cornerstone of the Ravens' defense. Widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history, his leadership and impactful play defined an era of Baltimore football.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 15, 1975: Raymond Anthony Lewis Jr. Born

On May 15, 1975, Raymond Anthony Lewis Jr. was born. He later became a celebrated professional football linebacker.

Others born on this day/year

January 31, 2000: Super Bowl XXXIV Party Incident

On January 31, 2000, following a Super Bowl XXXIV party in Atlanta, a fight broke out involving Ray Lewis' entourage, resulting in the stabbing deaths of Jacinth Baker and Richard Lollar. Lewis and two companions were later indicted on murder and aggravated assault charges.

June 2000: Acquittal of Companions

In June 2000, Ray Lewis' companions, Reginald Oakley and Joseph Sweeting, were acquitted of all charges related to the Super Bowl XXXIV party incident after five hours of deliberation by the jury.

April 29, 2004: Out-of-Court Settlement

On April 29, 2004, Ray Lewis reached an out-of-court settlement with India Lollar and the Baker family, preempting a scheduled civil proceeding related to the 2000 Super Bowl incident.

2004: Earned Undergraduate Degree

In 2004, Lewis earned his undergraduate degree in Arts and Science at the University of Maryland University College.

February 2005: Opened Ray Lewis Full Moon Bar-B-Que

In February 2005, Ray Lewis opened the Ray Lewis Full Moon Bar-B-Que restaurant in Baltimore's Canton neighborhood.

October 14, 2012: Torn Triceps Injury

On October 14, 2012, Ray Lewis suffered torn triceps during a game against the Dallas Cowboys, requiring surgery.

January 2, 2013: Retirement Announcement

On January 2, 2013, Ray Lewis announced that he would retire after his team finished the 2012-13 NFL playoffs.

February 2, 2017: Lip Sync Battle Victory

On February 2, 2017, Ray Lewis competed against Tony Gonzalez on "Lip Sync Battle" and emerged victorious with performances of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" and Nelly's "Hot in Herre."

August 2019: Dancing with the Stars Participation and Withdrawal

In August 2019, Ray Lewis was announced as a contestant on season 28 of "Dancing with the Stars" but later withdrew due to a tendon injury in his foot.