LKelley67

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/200...th.rumors.nfl/

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sure, who wouldn't want him. but at what price? he is 31 now and missed 10 games last season with a torn hamstring. more on that-

Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis said Friday that he won't be available for minicamps while recuperating from surgery to repair a torn hamstring.
In an interview with the NFL Network in Detroit -- the site of Sunday's Super Bowl XL -- Lewis said he has been off crutches for a few weeks following his early December surgery. A two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a perennial Pro Bowl selection, Lewis said he anticipates undergoing at least another three months of rehabilitation.
Lewis, who's under contract through 2008 with Baltimore with base salaries of $5.5 million in 2006 and $6.5 million apiece in 2007 and 2008 according to NFL Players Association documents, wasn't pressed about his future in Baltimore or other substantive, team-related topics.

AND

My diagnosis of the former All-Pro middle linebacker? He’s suffering from a torn hamstring, an intense desire for an influx of cash and a bruised ego since his request for a restructured deal keeps getting denied by Ozzie Newsome. Plus, his once intimidating game is declining.

Lewis sought a second opinion in Florida, quickly had surgery, then attended a bowl game in Orlando on crutches for a softball ESPN interview. In Westminster last week for an autograph show, he charged fans at least $65 per item and refused to make himself available to the Carroll County Times or veteran sports anchor Scott Garceau.
So many rumors are swirling around Lewis. Is he recovering well? Is he happy that Steve Bisciotti retained Brian Billick? Does he want to finish his career with a Florida team like the Miami Dolphins? All legitimate questions, and Lewis could decrease fans’ anxiety and media scrutiny by answering them. If he doesn’t, the rumor mill will not rest.
Lewis is slated to make $5.5 million again next season and $6.5 million in 2007 and 2008. Could free agent Bart Scott be a nice alternative at a much cheaper price? Stay tuned.

------they have expressed interest in getting an OT. do you make a call at all? if you do, what exactly do you offer for big ray? i'll cogitate it then put mine down. how bout you?

centurionsi

If they would take Gandy and Fincher for him, might be worth it. otherwise, would rather get a MLB in the draft or Get Hawk for the outside and play Fugiti in the middle.Think a lot of people are underestimating Bockwolt. Has a lot of speed-yes he got out of position and missed some tackles, but that could be the result of Venturi's noting defense. With Gibbs running the show, I think Bockwolt cold dvelop into a Teddy Brushi type- blue collar hard working and productive player.

saintswhodi

For a second day pick, yeah. But he has or wants a large contract. That alone, coupled with the fact he has not been the same for 2-3 years now, and i'd pass. But if he could be had at a vet mimimum contract, but with play time and incentive clauses that could escalate it's value, i'd take him just for the passion he'd bring. Can you imagine AJ Hawk learning from this guy(if we took Hawk).

LKelley67

I had about the same thoughts as the above...

Please take Gandy and have your choice of Watson or Fincher. I'd throw in a 4th rd pick or a 2007 3rd.

He may be 80% of his former self but that is still more than most others. The mentorship I had in mind too. Fujita, hardnosed worker, Lewis, the grisled vet with a chip on his shoulder (and gate appeal to boot), and some rookie like Hawk, Carpenter, or Ryans- not bad. Bock, Watson, or Fincher on the bench learning.

BrooksMustGo

I'm not against the idea. Esp. if they'd take Gandy for him. The problem he has in Baltimore is that he wants another BIG payday. Seems to me that he will want a restructured deal if he goes anywhere with lots of guaranteed money. Practically Lewis would be a big addition to this team. Economically, he's probably not going to merit the money he will demand. The PR issue is going to be -- "how big a hit does Lewis' goodwill take over crying about more money." He is not far from facing the same public perception that TO has. Why would we want to pay big money for that?

http://www.blackandgold.net/site/signature/buddysig.jpg

LKelley67

i'd give 85% petersen more money than him just for age too.

LKelley67

not much interest in old Ray I spose. They come n they go...

LongTimeFan

He's ok, I wouldn't mind having him, (who wouldn't) if anyone can motivate a D it's Ray, but I wouldn't want to break the bank if you will for him.

spkb25

he will cost a ton and cost a high draft pick i think. i thought baltimore were looking for a 1rst rounder. let me know if i am wrong on that but i do remember reading it somewhere. ltf i am with you he is a nice addition for a reasonable cost but i think he will be looking for a huge contract

LongTimeFan

As good as Ray is I don't see anyone giving a first rounder. but I think I read too that they want a first rounder for him.