What could be a fairytale ending to Ravens LB Ray Lewis career took an uncomfortable detour Tuesday, with accusations Lewis’ 2012 rehab was assisted by the purchase of substances banned by the NFL. Said story broke just in time for Super Bowl XLVII Media Day, meaning there was an entirely new subject for Lewis to avoid (on top of, y’know, the other one)
“I’m going to say it again, that was a two-year old story that you want me to refresh. I wouldn’t give him the credit to even mention his name or his antics in my speeches or my moment,” said Lewis, who will retire following Sunday’s title game against the San Francisco 49ers. “I can’t do it so I won’t even speak about it. I’ve been in this business for 17 years and nobody has ever gotten up with me every morning and trained with me. Every test, I’ve ever took in the NFL, there’s never been a question if I ever even thought about using anything. To even entertain stupidity like that, tell him to try and get his story out with somebody else.”
“Him” is Mitch Ross, a co-owner of Sports with Alternatives to Steroids (SWATS). Ross told Sports Illustrated that upon Lewis’ request, he provided the 37-year-old linebacker with products aimed at speeding up his recover from the torn triceps, an injury that occurred Oct. 14. Lewis came back in time for the Jan.6 playoff opener against the Indianapolis Colts and his return is being cited as one of the factors behind the Ravens’ Super Bowl run.
Lewis’ alleged involvement with Ross first surfaced in 2011 when ThePostGame.com reported that Jackson, the former Ravens quarterback coach and a current offensive assistant for the Cincinnati Bengals, was told by the NFL to sever ties with SWATS. Jackson reportedly introduced several Ravens to the company’s products, including Lewis.
“Two years ago, that was the same report,” Lewis said. “I wouldn’t give that report or him any of my press. He’s not worthy of that.”
Lewis would have you believe that not only is his “moment” being stolen, but reporters asking legit questions about his involvement with Ross are co-conspirators in generating publicity for SWATS. If you believe that, I’ve got a bloodstained white suit I’d like to sell you. That is, if anyone could find it.