For 17 seasons, Ray Lewis inspired respect and fear in opponents as middle linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens and the team's heart and soul. NFL players reacted Wednesday on Twitter to Lewis' decision to retire.
I'd like to take a moment to honor a great career and player in @raylewis a worthy opponent.
— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) January 2, 2013
Had to watch Big Ray announce his retirement...it has been amazing to play with him...We need to take care of business for him and our city
— Torrey Smith (@TorreySmithWR) January 2, 2013
Sad to hear one of the greats retired today.Thank you ray lewis for inspiring me and athletes around the world to be the best we can be! #52
— Manti Te'o (@MTeo_5) January 2, 2013
Blessed to say I competed against Ray Lewis. True definition of a leader and inspiration to a team. Looking fwd to the HOF speech. #salute
— Chris Ogbonnaya (@ChrisOgbonnaya) January 2, 2013
Ray Lewis, one of the true all-time greats! Gonna be sad to see him go.
— Lance Moore (@LanceMoore16) January 2, 2013
Hard to listen to Ray talkin about the end! Only guy I thought would play FOREVER!!!
— Aaron Curry (@AaronCurry51) January 2, 2013
My #NFL Classmate @raylewis delivered a powerful speech on why its time to retire after da season. His Children! That's why we don't miss it
— Lawyer Milloy (@LawyerMilloy) January 2, 2013
From SportsNation:
- jdr1388 "I knew after he tore his tricep he would retire. I really wish it hadn't happened, cause now he probably be leaving a year before he wanted to. The NFL will miss you dearly Ray, and the fans even more. He is one of the few players I could not wait to see play the game of football."
- bradsry "The Ravens owe Lewis everything and as a fan I cannot thank him enough. He brought such intensity, passion, and class on the field. He always is in the middle of every play. Putting 100% even when everyone else may quit. No one can replace him and it wont be the same at the games anymore.it has been amazing to spend the majority of my life (20 years) to watch this man every sunday become one of the greatest of all time."
- Byuiso "Greatest HOF speech incoming."
- Stl Sports Fan 2 "Ray Lewis brought that intensity to the game that had not been done like that in a while! Will hate to see you leave, but proud to say I have seen you play!."
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