Ravens' Ray Lewis to retire after playoffs Linebacker Ray Lewis, the spiritual leader of the Baltimore Ravens for the better part of two decades, will retire after the playoffs. Nick Wass / Associated Press / January 2, 2013 By Chuck Schilken January 2, 2013, 10:09 a.m. Ray Lewis is a Super Bowl MVP. He's a two-time defensive player of the year and a 13-time Pro Bowl selection. And now the one of the NFL's best-ever linebackers is done. Or almost done, depending on how that torn triceps has healed. The 37-year-old who has spent his entire career with Baltimore informed his teammates Wednesday that he plans to retire following the Ravens' upcoming playoff run, which starts Sunday with a home game against the Indianapolis Colts. "It is time for me to create a new legacy," the 17-year veteran said. It remains to be seen whether Lewis will be on the field for Sunday's game or any others the Ravens might take part in this postseason. He hasn't played since sustaining the injury Oct. 14 but has said he expects to play this week. Coach Jim Harbaugh said Monday that Lewis would be a game time decision. The injury was initially thought to be season-ending, but Lewis has worked hard in rehabilitation in an attempt to help the Ravens return to the Super Bowl for the first time since their victory following the 2000 season. "Everything I've done is to make another run at the Lombardi," Lewis said. Black Monday sweeps through the NFL Billy Cundiff signing gives 49ers two inconsistent kickers Son of Clippers owner Donald Sterling found dead in Malibu