After going strong for 17 seasons, Baltimore Ravens star Ray Lewis is throwing in the towel and ending the chapter of his life as a professional football player. Lewis made the announcement yesterday that he will end his NFL career after this year’s playoffs.

 

Even though Lewis hasn’t played since October 14th due to a right triceps injury, he plans to make his return to the game this Sunday when the Ravens face off against the Indianapolis Colts.

 

The 13-time Pro Bowler says his primary reason for leaving the game is to spend more time being a dad. In his announcement, Lewis said, “Everything that starts has an end. For me, today, I told my team that this will be my last ride. God is calling. My children have made the ultimate sacrifice for their father for 17 years. I don’t want to see them do that no more. I’ve done what I wanted to do in this business, and now it’s my turn to give them something back.”

 

While it can’t be argued that Lewis was definitely dedicated, determined and dependable when he put on that No. 52 and hit the field, there’s definitely no argument when it comes to him deciding to lay his uniform down and do the same for his kids. But there’s no doubt that he will be missed.