Heart, Swagger Return to Ravens' Defense As Baltimore Re-Signs Ray Lewis

The thought of Ray Lewis lining up without the purple, black, and gold 52 on his jersey seemed awkward and uncomfortable, especially for Ravens fans.

After Wednesday, the only place you'll be able to see that image is a Photoshop program or the latest installment of the Madden video game franchise.

Lewis agreed to terms on a three-year deal that is reportedly worth $20-25 million and will allow the future Hall of Famer to retire as a Raven.

If the Ravens can put a price on success, it's $20-25 million over the next three seasons.

While Lewis isn't the only reason the Ravens win games, he plays a bigger part than anyone that lines up on defense with him. Taking Ray Lewis out of the middle of Baltimore's defense takes away its edge and its swagger.

The Ravens would still have a strong defense without Lewis in the middle. But without Lewis, would the Ravens defense really be the Ravens defense?

Baltimore's defense has been built on cornerstones since the turn of the century. Players like Peter Boulware, Tony Siragusa, Chris McAlister, Ed Reed, Suggs and Lewis have been the blocks on which the Ravens' defense stood. Losing one of those blocks would do nothing to help the continued success of the unit.

It was imperative that Lewis return to Baltimore in 2009. The loss of Bart Scott via free agency does not do the damage losing Lewis would have. If Baltimore's defense were a living being, Lewis would undoubtedly be the heart.

A player of Lewis' stature, skill and importance is irreplaceable. Lewis may be the single-most important defensive player to his team in the league, and the Ravens did right to make sure he did not leave town.

Lewis isn't only important on the field. While he may begin to lose a step in his final years as an active NFL player, his leadership will continue to drive Baltimore's veterans, as well as newcomers, to excel and keep the Ravens among the NFL's elite defensive squads.