Ray Lewis has confirmed that he will retire at the end of the Baltimore Ravens' season.
The veteran linebacker missed the second half of the campaign after tearing his triceps, but is expected to play against the Indianapolis Colts in the playoffs on Sunday.
The 37-year-old told reporters: "I talked to my team today and I talked to them about life in general. Everything that starts has an end. It's just life.
"For me, today, I told my team that this would be my last ride. I told them I just felt so much peace in where I am with my decision because of everything I've done in this league. I've done it, man.
"I think we all get to enjoy what Sunday will feel like knowing that this will be the last time 52 plays in a uniform in Ravens' stadium."
Lewis has been voted to the Pro Bowl 13 times during his career, and was part of the Ravens' Super Bowl-winning side in the 2000 season.
Sian Cowper
