Considering how long ago this was first thrown out there during the NFL Playoffs, it may come as a bit of a surprise that it's only become official just now, but here we are: Ray Lewis has officially joined ESPN as an NFL analyst, and will start with the network full time on Aug. 1.
The two-time Super Bowl winner and NFL Defensive Player of the Year will appear every week on Monday Night Football (where he will be on-site with Stuart Scott, Steve Young and Trent Dilfer) and Sunday NFL Countdown. Lewis will also contribute to the network's Super Bowl coverage every year, and will make a guest appearance on ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike in the Morning each week.
In an ESPN press release, Lewis expressed his excitement to join the Worldwide Leader, saying "ESPN is such a big part of how fans watch and experience sports, especially the NFL, so I'm excited to join their team. I'm ready to bring the same level of passion to this next phase of my life as I brought to the field during my years as a player. I can't wait to work with my new teammates, many of whom I've already known for years."
Lewis, who spent 17 years with the Baltimore Ravens, retired after playing a large role in Baltimore's Super Bowl XLVII victory over the San Francisco 49ers.