Ray Lewis will retire after Super Bowl

On Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, Ray Lewis announced he will retire after 17 seasons to spend more time with his sons. On Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013, Lewis helped lead the Ravens to a win over the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship game. The fearsome 13-time Pro Bowl linebacker symbolizes the NFL – not just the Ravens, says Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole, and is well known for his explosive personality.

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USA TODAY Sports Photo By David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports Sun, Jan 20, 2013 10:40 PM EST

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis (middle) waves to the crowd as he leaves the field after the AFC championship game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Ravens won 28-13. (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)
Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis (middle) waves to the crowd as he leaves the field after the AFC championship game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Ravens won 28-13. (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)