2012 Super Bowl: Ray Lewis and Stars Who Should Retire If They Win a Title

Ray Lewis and a couple other stars should walk away from the game at the end of this season if they have the opportunity to retire as a champion.

Few players get the chance to go out on top, and these guys shouldn't pass it up. They are nearing the end of their career anyway, and this would allow them to end it with one of their greatest sports moments. 

Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens

Lewis is in the 16th season of his remarkable career. He is 36 years old, and he has done everything there is for a player to do. 

Lewis is still capable of playing at a high level, but his body is starting to break down. He missed four games this year due to a toe injury. This was the first season he had missed a game since 2007. 

There is no question that Lewis would be able to return for a 17th season and be productive, but if his team wins the Super Bowl, he should walk away from the temptation to continue playing. 

This will not allow only allow him to go out on top, but it will ensure that memories of Lewis will be of the intimidating defender that can't be stopped, and not of an aging player struggling to keep with youngsters as he battles injuries. 

David Akers, San Francisco 49ers

This Pro Bowl kicker is 37 years old and in his 11th season. He clearly still has the leg to continue kicking in the NFL, but if the 49ers win the Super Bowl, Akers will have the rare opportunity of not only going out as a champion, but also at the peak of his capabilities.

Akers had the most prolific season of his career in terms of points. He was absolutely sensational this year. He made nine field goals of 50-plus yards. His previous career high was five.

If the 49ers win the Super Bowl, Akers' final memories of his career will be that of being one of the league's best at his position, and as a Super Bowl champion. 

Chad Ochocinco, New England Patriots

Given his lackluster stats and complete failure to make an impact this season, Ochocinco may have been best served to retire after last season. 

The loquacious star now has a chance to atone for his decision to play too long with the opportunity to retire after he gets his first Super Bowl ring. 

Ochocinco is in 11th season; he is 34 years old, and his best seasons are behind him. Ochocinco had just 15 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown. Those numbers would just be a solid two-game stretch for this receiver when he was in his prime. 

Mr. 85 has clearly lost a step, and his days of being an impact player are over. It is time for him to hang up the cleats, and its not like this guy is going to struggle to find ways to stay busy in his retirement.