Friday's practice was the last in the storied career of future Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. The Ravens play music throughout the majority of their practices, and to honor Lewis, they played two of his favorite songs to start the day, "Spiritual," by Donald Lawrence and Nelly's "Hot in Herre."
Ravens practice report: Ray Lewis stoic in final workout
All Ravens players practiced fully on Friday and are listed as probable for Sunday’s Super Bowl against the 49ers in New Orleans. Friday’s practice also marks the last for Ray Lewis
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
When head coach John Harbaugh was asked about Lewis’ last practice and what it means to him, Harbaugh downplayed it, saying that Lewis isn’t focusing on anything but the game.
“I didn’t even think of it,” said coach John Harbaugh before boarding the bus for the 15-minute trip back to Baltimore’s team hotel in downtown New Orleans. “That’s not where Ray’s head is either, I’m sure. He’s thinking about the game. We all are.”
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The Ravens will need Lewis on Sunday as they'll be facing Colin Kaepernick and the Niners' pistol offense, which team's haven't seem to have figured out yet. Lewis' greatest strength this late in his career may be his ability not only to lead the Ravens defense but to figure out opposing offenses. Having him at full strength could be the Ravens' greatest strength on Sunday.
Some of the other players on Friday's practice report include fullback Vonta Leach (knee, ankle), defensive lineman Haloti Ngata (knee), tight end Dennis Pitta (thigh), safety Ed Reed (shoulder) and linebacker Terrell Suggs (achilles, biceps). All players are probable for Sunday's game, though.
Harbaugh was happy with this week’s work in practice, saying that his team is clicking on all cylinders.
“It was an A-plus. A-plus-plus,” he said. “We’re at the state where we’re clicking on all cylinders and practicing very, very well. We’ve had a few assignment errors, but they’ve been corrected right away. I’m very pleased with how the week has gone.”
He also gathered his team after practiced, thanking them for the body of work they’ve put in this season and for who they are as people. He urged them to get rest and spend some time alone.
As for Lewis, Sunday’s game will cap off a career in which he has racked up 1,336 tackles, 41.5 sacks, forced 17 fumbles and intercepted 31 passes, running three back for touchdowns. Considering Sunday’s Super Bowl will be the last time he steps foot on an NFL field as a player, fans should be expecting to see nothing less than fireworks.
The Super Bowl kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast nationally on CBS.
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