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The long, storied career of Ray Lewis is coming to an end.

The Baltimore Ravens linebacker informed teammates and coaches on Wednesday that Sunday’s playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts will be his final run at M&T Bank Stadium, according to the team.

“This will be my last ride,” Lewis said.

The seven-time All-Pro didn’t say if he would play, but confirmed he’s physically ready to take the field. Lewis was activated late last month, but hasn’t played in a game since he tore his triceps during a Week 6 win over the Dallas Cowboys.

NFL.com’s Albert Breer cited two people in the room to report that Lewis addressed teammates Wednesday. The 37-year-old linebacker rose to his feet and spoke about playing for each other and the bond between teammates before dropping the news.

“Unreal. Very inspiring. There’s no one like him, man,” one observer texted Breer.

“I can’t picture Baltimore without him,” said running back Ray Rice.

With 227 starts since being drafted in the first round by the Ravens in 1996, Lewis is not only the leader of this team, but the most celebrated player in franchise history. His return to the field — one last time — would bring a tremendous emotional boost to a team that’s been a streaky operation in his absence.

“Everything I’ve done is to make another run at the Lombardi,” Lewis said Wednesday.

His final chance — and our final look at this future Hall of Famer — begins Sunday.

(source-Marc Sessler NFL.com)