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Ray Lewis

Ray Lewis is an American former professional football player best known as a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens in the National Football League (NFL).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Ray Lewis is an American former professional football player best known as a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens in the National Football League (NFL). He is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018. Lewis helped the Ravens win two Super Bowls and won Super Bowl MVP honors in 2001 for Super Bowl XXXV.

Early life and college career

Ray Lewis was born in Bartow, Florida, in 1975. He attended the University of Miami, where he developed into a highly regarded defensive player before entering the NFL.

NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens

Lewis was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft, 26th overall, and played 17 seasons for the team. He became the franchise’s leading defensive figure and was widely known for his leadership and intensity.

Championships and awards

Lewis helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XXXV and Super Bowl XLVII. He was named Super Bowl XXXV MVP and received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2000 and 2003.

Legacy and honours

Lewis is considered one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018. His career totals and awards have made him one of the most recognised defensive players of his era.

Key facts

  • Lewis played his entire NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2012.
  • He was selected 26th overall in the 1996 NFL Draft after playing college football at Miami.
  • He won Super Bowl XXXV with Baltimore and was named the game's MVP.
  • He also won Super Bowl XLVII in his final NFL season.
  • Lewis was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice, in 2000 and 2003.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Ray Lewis?
Ray Lewis is a former American football linebacker who played his entire NFL career for the Baltimore Ravens.
What position did Ray Lewis play?
He played linebacker, primarily as a middle linebacker.
What team did Ray Lewis play for?
He played for the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2012.
What major awards did Ray Lewis win?
He won two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, Super Bowl XXXV MVP, and was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
How many Super Bowls did Ray Lewis win?
He won two Super Bowls with the Ravens.
When was Ray Lewis inducted into the Hall of Fame?
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ray-Lewis
    Supports: Birth date and place, NFL linebacker career, retirement, and Pro Football Hall of Fame induction.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/964/ray-lewis
    Supports: Position, birthdate, college, draft details, team, and awards.
  3. Beacon Institute — https://s7.goeshow.com/beaconinstitute/lifespan/2024/ray_lewis.cfm
    Supports: Early life, Ravens career, Super Bowl wins, and Hall of Fame induction.
  4. NFL.com — https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/characters-38
    Supports: Career accomplishments, Super Bowl titles, Super Bowl MVP, and biographical context.