Raymond Lewis Jr. is a retired American football linebacker known for his 17-season career with the NFL's Baltimore Ravens. His entire professional career was spent with the Ravens. Before joining the NFL, he played college football for the Miami Hurricanes, where he was recognized as an All-American.
1965: Ed Weisacosky Sets University of Miami Tackles Record
In 1965, Ed Weisacosky set the University of Miami's single-season tackles record with 164. This record would stand for several years, highlighting Weisacosky's defensive prowess.
May 15, 1975: Birth of Ray Lewis
Ray Anthony Lewis Jr. was born on May 15, 1975.
1994: First College All-American Selection
Ray Lewis's exceptional college football career earned him his first All-American selection in 1994.
1995: Ray Lewis Declares for the NFL Draft
After a successful college career at the University of Miami, Ray Lewis decided to forgo his senior year and enter the 1996 NFL Draft.
1995: Second College All-American Selection
In 1995, Ray Lewis was once again recognized as an All-American, showcasing his consistent excellence in college football.
1996: Ray Lewis Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens
In 1996, Ray Lewis was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the NFL draft, marking the beginning of his 17-year career with the team.
1996: Baltimore Ravens Draft Ray Lewis and Jonathan Ogden
In the 1996 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens selected Jonathan Ogden as the fourth overall pick and Ray Lewis as the 26th overall pick. These selections would become cornerstones of the Ravens franchise.
1996: NFL Debut
Ray Lewis began his NFL career in 1996, marking the start of a Hall of Fame journey.
1996: Ray Lewis's Impressive Rookie Season
Ray Lewis had a standout rookie season in 1996, leading the NFL with 15 tackles for loss and the Ravens with 110 tackles. His performance earned him a spot on the USA Today's All-Rookie team.
1997: Start of Pro Bowl Streak
This year marked the beginning of Ray Lewis's impressive five-year consecutive Pro Bowl selection streak, starting in 1997. This period highlighted his dominance and impact on the field.
1997: Ray Lewis's Record-Breaking Season and First Pro Bowl Selection
In 1997, Ray Lewis recorded a career-high and NFL-best 184 tackles, including a record-breaking 156 solo tackles. His outstanding performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection.
1997: NFL Leading Tackles
Ray Lewis led the NFL in tackles for the first time in his career in 1997.
1998: Second-Team All-Pro Selection
Ray Lewis was recognized for his performance in 1998 with a second-team Associated Press All-Pro selection.
1998: Ray Lewis Earns Second Pro Bowl Selection
Ray Lewis's consistent performance in the 1998 season, which included 120 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions, and a forced fumble, led to his second Pro Bowl selection.
1998: Defensive Dominance Begins
Starting in 1998, Ray Lewis and the Ravens' defense began a streak of not allowing a 100-yard rusher for 51 consecutive games.
1999: NFL Leading Tackles and First-Team All-Pro
Ray Lewis achieved two significant milestones in 1999: leading the NFL in tackles for the second time and being named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro for the first time.
1999: Ray Lewis Leads NFL in Tackles, Earns Third Pro Bowl Selection
Ray Lewis continued his dominant form in 1999, leading the NFL in tackles for the second time with 165. He also earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and was named to the All-Pro first team.
January 31, 2000: Super Bowl XXXIV Aftermath
Following Super Bowl XXXIV on January 31, 2000, a fight involving Ray Lewis' entourage resulted in the deaths of Jacinth Baker and Richard Lollar. Lewis and two companions were indicted on murder and aggravated assault charges but were later acquitted.
June 2000: Acquittal and Super Bowl XXXV MVP
In June 2000, Ray Lewis' companions were acquitted of all charges related to the Super Bowl XXXIV aftermath. The following year, Lewis was named Super Bowl XXXV MVP.
2000: Ray Lewis Leads Ravens to Super Bowl XXXV Victory and Wins Super Bowl MVP
In 2000, Ray Lewis led the Baltimore Ravens' historically great defense to a Super Bowl XXXV victory, shutting out the New York Giants. His exceptional performance in the Super Bowl earned him the MVP award.
2000: First-Team All-Pro Selection
Ray Lewis was named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro for the second consecutive year in 2000.
2000: First Defensive Player of the Year Award
Ray Lewis earned his first Defensive Player of the Year award in 2000, showcasing his dominance on the field.
2000: Ray Lewis's Legal Case and NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award
In 2000, Ray Lewis pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in a case involving the deaths of two men. He testified in court, and a jury ruled the killings were in self-defense. Despite the controversy, Lewis went on to have a stellar season, earning the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.
2001: NFL Leading Tackles and First-Team All-Pro
In 2001, Ray Lewis led the NFL in tackles for the third time in his career and was named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro for the third consecutive year.
2001: Fifth Consecutive Pro Bowl and All-Pro Honors
In 2001, Ray Lewis was selected for his fifth Pro Bowl in a row and received first-team All-Pro honors. He was a defensive force, leading the NFL with 162 tackles. He also had a career-high 18 tackles in a single game against the Colts. His exceptional performance throughout the season earned him his third AFC Defensive Player of the Week award.
2001: Defensive Dominance Continues
The streak of not allowing a 100-yard rusher, which began in 1998, continued until 2001, showcasing the Ravens' defensive prowess.
2001: End of Pro Bowl Streak
This year marked the end of Ray Lewis's impressive five-year consecutive Pro Bowl selection streak, which ran from 1997 to 2001. His absence on the field due to injury impacted the Ravens' defensive performance, ending their season with a disappointing record.
2002: Shoulder Injury Limits Season
Ray Lewis's 2002 season was hampered by a shoulder injury, limiting him to just five games. Despite this setback, he still managed to record 58 tackles, two interceptions, and two pass deflections. His impressive performance in Week 4 against the Denver Broncos, where he tied his career-high of 18 tackles, earned him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. This injury, however, broke his streak of five consecutive Pro Bowl selections.
2002: Pop Culture Appearances
Ray Lewis's influence extended to pop culture in 2002, with references in TV shows, films, and music videos.
2003: Second Defensive Player of the Year Award
In 2003, Ray Lewis received his second Defensive Player of the Year Award, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best defensive players in the league.
2003: Dominates with All-Pro and Defensive Player of the Year Awards
In 2003, Ray Lewis solidified his status as a defensive powerhouse, earning widespread recognition for his exceptional performance. He received an overwhelming majority of votes for the AP All-Pro team and secured the coveted AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. This season saw Lewis achieve career highs, including 161 tackles, six interceptions, and two forced fumbles, showcasing his dominance and impact on the field. His outstanding play earned him numerous accolades, including Pro Bowl selection, Defensive MVP honors from multiple organizations, and recognition on various All-Pro teams.
2003: Most Dominant Player Recognition
In 2003, a poll of NFL coaches recognized Ray Lewis as the most dominant player in the league.
2003: NFL Leading Tackles, Record-Matching Interceptions, and First-Team All-Pro
Ray Lewis had a standout year in 2003, leading the NFL in tackles for the fourth time, matching the post-merger record for interceptions by a middle linebacker in a single season with six, and being named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro.
2003: Ray Lewis's Second NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award
Ray Lewis won his second NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2003, solidifying his place as one of the league's most dominant defensive players.
April 29, 2004: Settlement with Lollar Family
On April 29, 2004, Ray Lewis reached an out-of-court settlement with the family of Richard Lollar, one of the victims from the Super Bowl XXXIV aftermath.
2004: NFL Leading Tackles and First-Team All-Pro
Ray Lewis continued his dominance in 2004, leading the NFL in tackles for a record fifth time and earning his fifth first-team Associated Press All-Pro selection.
2004: Ray Lewis Earns College Degree
In 2004, Ray Lewis, while still an active NFL player, earned his undergraduate degree in Arts and Science from the University of Maryland University College. This accomplishment showcased his commitment to education and personal growth.
2004: Continues All-Pro Performance with Seventh Pro Bowl Selection
In 2004, Ray Lewis continued his reign as a top defensive player, earning first-team All-Pro recognition from the Associated Press and receiving recognition from other organizations such as College and Pro Football Weekly. His consistent performance, with 146 tackles and a strong presence on the field, secured his seventh Pro Bowl nomination, further solidifying his place among the league's elite.
2004: Madden NFL Cover and Endorsements
In 2004, Ray Lewis secured several endorsements and was featured on the cover of Madden NFL 2005.
February 2005: Restaurant Opening
Ray Lewis opened the Ray Lewis Full Moon Bar-B-Que in Baltimore in February 2005.
2005: Madden NFL Cover Athlete
Ray Lewis was featured on the cover of Madden NFL 2005, a testament to his status in the NFL.
2005: Season Cut Short Due to Injury
Ray Lewis's 2005 season was cut short due to an unfortunate injury sustained in week 6. This marked a setback for the star linebacker, limiting his playing time to just six games. Despite the shortened season, he still managed to make a significant impact, recording 46 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery. His early departure from the season highlighted his importance to the Ravens' defense.
2006: NASCAR Venture
Ray Lewis ventured into NASCAR racing in 2006 with S&L Racing but was unsuccessful.
2006: Sports Illustrated Cover Story
Ray Lewis's commitment to his Christian faith was featured in a Sports Illustrated cover story in 2006.
2006: Leads Ravens Defense to Top Rankings, Earns Pro Bowl Nomination
In 2006, despite missing two games due to injury, Ray Lewis played a pivotal role in leading the Ravens' defense to impressive rankings. He recorded 103 tackles, a career-high five sacks, and two interceptions. His consistent performance earned him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors and a Pro Bowl selection, though he withdrew due to a hand injury. Lewis's leadership and on-field contributions were instrumental in the Ravens' defensive success that season.
2006: Disability Sports Advocacy and "Act of Kindness" Award
In 2006, Ray Lewis received the "Act of Kindness" Award and became an advocate for disability sports.
2008: First-Team All-Pro Selection
After a three-year hiatus, Ray Lewis was named a first-team Associated Press All-Pro for the sixth time in his career in 2008.
2008: Leads Ravens to AFC Championship, Earns All-Pro and Pro Bowl Honors
In 2008, Ray Lewis played a pivotal role in guiding the Ravens to the AFC Championship game. He showcased his versatility with 117 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and three interceptions, earning his tenth Pro Bowl selection and a sixth first-team All-Pro honor. His outstanding performance, including a standout game against the Houston Texans where he earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week, solidified his place as a defensive leader and earned him a new contract with the Ravens.
2008: Restaurant Closure
The Ray Lewis Full Moon Bar-B-Que, which opened in 2005, closed its doors in 2008.
September 2009: Named to Sporting News' Team of the Decade
In September 2009, Ray Lewis received recognition for his consistent dominance throughout the 2000s, being named to Sporting News' Team of the Decade. This honor highlighted his lasting impact and his place among the best players of the era.
2009: First-Team All-Pro Selection
Ray Lewis earned his seventh first-team Associated Press All-Pro selection in 2009.
May 11, 2010: Street Renaming
A portion of Baltimore's North Avenue was renamed "Ray Lewis Way" on May 11, 2010, honoring his contributions to the city.
November 21, 2010: Achieves Rare Career Milestone with 30 Interceptions and 30 Sacks
On November 21, 2010, Ray Lewis etched his name in NFL history by becoming only the second player ever to record at least 30 interceptions and 30 sacks in his career. This accomplishment cemented his legacy as one of the most versatile and impactful defensive players of all time. His ability to disrupt both the passing and rushing game in such a dominant fashion earned him widespread recognition and solidified his place among the game's greats.
2010: Second-Team All-Pro Selection
Ray Lewis received his third second-team Associated Press All-Pro selection in 2010.
October 16, 2011: Becomes First Player with 40 Sacks and 30 Interceptions
On October 16, 2011, Ray Lewis achieved yet another historical milestone, becoming the first player in NFL history to record at least 40 sacks and 30 interceptions in his career. This accomplishment further solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile and dominant defensive players the game has ever seen.
2011: Ranked Highly on NFL Top 100 Players
Ray Lewis's performance in the previous season earned him high praise from his peers, ranking fourth overall and as the highest defensive player on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2011. This recognition highlighted his influence and respect within the league.
October 14, 2012: Torn Triceps Injury
On October 14, 2012, during a game against the Dallas Cowboys, Ray Lewis suffered a torn triceps injury.
2012: Ray Lewis Overcomes Injury to Win Second Super Bowl
In 2012, Ray Lewis suffered a triceps tear that sidelined him for much of the regular season. He made a remarkable comeback in the playoffs, helping lead the Ravens to victory in Super Bowl XLVII, his second Super Bowl win.
2012: Ranked on NFL Top 100 Players
In 2012, Ray Lewis was ranked 20th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players list, demonstrating his continued influence and respect within the league. This recognition further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players of his generation.
2012: Ray Lewis Retires from the NFL
Ray Lewis retired from the NFL in 2012 after a successful 17-year career, all with the Baltimore Ravens.
January 2, 2013: Retirement Announcement
On January 2, 2013, Ray Lewis announced his retirement from the NFL following the conclusion of the 2012-2013 playoffs.
March 13, 2013: ESPN Analyst
Ray Lewis joined ESPN as an NFL analyst on March 13, 2013.
2013: Hernandez Arrest and Ravens' Crisis Management
In 2013, the arrest of Aaron Hernandez brought renewed attention to the Ravens' handling of Ray Lewis's murder trial, with former coach Brian Billick offering his perspective.
September 4, 2014: Statue Unveiling
A statue of Ray Lewis was unveiled in front of M&T Bank Stadium on September 4, 2014, honoring his legacy with the Baltimore Ravens.
2015: Publication of Autobiography
Ray Lewis's autobiography, "I Feel Like Going On: Life, Game, and Glory," was published in 2015.
2015: Contract Extension with Ravens
In 2008, Ray Lewis, after becoming a free agent, decided to continue his career with the Baltimore Ravens. He signed a contract extension that would last through 2015, indicating his commitment to the team and his desire to finish his career in Baltimore.
2016: Michael Phelps Seeks Advice
Michael Phelps, a Baltimore native and Ravens fan, revealed that he sought advice from Ray Lewis after which he found his life purpose and desire to compete in the 2016 Summer Olympics.
2016: Departure from ESPN
Ray Lewis's time with ESPN ended in 2016.
February 2, 2017: Lip Sync Battle Victory
Ray Lewis competed on Spike's Lip Sync Battle and won on February 2, 2017.
June 20, 2017: Fox Sports 1 Analyst
On June 20, 2017, Ray Lewis joined Fox Sports 1 as an analyst.
February 3, 2018: Ray Lewis Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
On February 3, 2018, Ray Lewis was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his illustrious career.
2018: Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction
Ray Lewis was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, his first year of eligibility.
August 2019: Dancing with the Stars and Injury
Ray Lewis was announced as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars in August 2019 but withdrew due to a foot injury.
2021: Ray Lewis III Plays Indoor Football
Ray Lewis III played indoor football for the Wyoming Mustangs in 2021.
June 15, 2023: Death of Son, Ray Lewis III
Ray Lewis's son, Ray III, tragically passed away at the age of 28 on June 15, 2023, due to an accidental overdose.