Ray Lewis Sustains Ugly Finger Injury vs. Broncos

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis suffered a nasty injury in the team’s divisional round matchup with the Denver Broncos, but a banged-up finger was never going to keep the legend on the sidelines.

Still, the injury looks incredibly painful, and Snarkolepsy’s C.J. Fogler shared a picture of Lewis’ finger via Twitter:

"

Ray Lewis is going to need to retire than mangled finger today twitpic.com/buol0s

— CJ Fogler (@cjzero) January 12, 2013"

Lewis announced that he would retire following the 2012 season just before the Ravens started their playoff run. This provided the team with a spark, and although Baltimore lost four its last five regular season games, it was able to earn a convincing 24-9 victory over the Indianapolis Colts during Wild Card Weekend. 

Last week’s contest was Lewis’ first game back after he tore his triceps in October and was ruled out for the season. Lewis’ ability to come back from this injury was a reminder that he is no ordinary linebacker. 

His complete disregard of an injury that would have a normal person writhing around in pain is another example of Lewis’ exceptional toughness and leadership.

The Ravens were lodged in a close battle with the Broncos at the time of the injury, and without Lewis’ experience on the field for the defense, it is unlikely the group would have continued playing at the same level. 

Each moment like this is not just another illustration of Lewis’ greatness, but also a reminder of what the NFL will be lacking in 2013. The Ravens star is a true legend who will be on the fast track towards the Hall of Fame once his retirement is official.