Three Legendary Baltimore Ravens Players Make PFF’s Team of the Century: A Tribute to Football Greatness and Legacy
In the world of professional football, there are teams that redefine the game, and then there are players who transcend the sport itself. When Pro Football Focus (PFF) unveiled their “Team of the Century,” a prestigious list of the greatest NFL players over the last 100 years, three legendary figures from the Baltimore Ravens made their mark. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Jonathan Ogden, the stalwarts who formed the backbone of one of the NFL’s most dominant franchises, were honored for their unparalleled contributions to the game. Their inclusion on this distinguished list not only highlights their individual greatness but also underscores the lasting legacy they’ve created within the NFL. This recognition from PFF adds another accolade to their already legendary careers, showcasing the unmatched impact they’ve had on both the Ravens organization and the NFL at large.
Ray Lewis, the heart and soul of the Ravens’ defense for over 17 seasons, was an undeniable choice for PFF’s Team of the Century. Known for his fiery passion, unparalleled leadership, and relentless pursuit of excellence, Lewis is widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in NFL history. His ability to dominate the field with a combination of athleticism, intelligence, and a nose for the ball made him a constant force. From his Super Bowl XXXV MVP performance to his incredible longevity and consistency, Lewis’s influence on the Ravens was immeasurable. He was a true field general, a linebacker whose name became synonymous with tenacity and grit. His intensity on game day inspired not only his teammates but the entire franchise, ensuring that his place in football history would never be questioned.
Ed Reed, another cornerstone of the Ravens’ defense, also earned a spot on PFF’s Team of the Century. As one of the most dynamic and game-changing safeties in NFL history, Reed’s ability to read the quarterback, anticipate plays, and create turnovers was unparalleled. He was a playmaker in the truest sense of the word, with the ability to turn a game on its head with a single interception or a timely fumble recovery. His intelligence on the field and remarkable instincts made him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. Reed’s versatility allowed him to impact the game in multiple ways, whether it was as a deep safety patrolling the backfield or stepping up to deliver a critical hit. His leadership, combined with his rare talent for changing the course of a game, made him an easy choice for PFF’s prestigious list.
Lastly, Jonathan Ogden, an offensive lineman whose dominance in the trenches helped shape the Ravens’ offense for years, was also recognized by PFF as one of the greatest players of all time. Ogden’s size, strength, and skill set made him a nightmare for defensive linemen and edge rushers alike. Standing 6’9″ and weighing over 340 pounds, Ogden was a physical presence on the field, but it wasn’t just his sheer size that made him special; it was his agility, technique, and understanding of the game that set him apart. Ogden was a key figure in the Ravens’ offensive line for 12 seasons, earning 11 Pro Bowl selections and a spot in the Hall of Fame. He was a player whose presence on the field allowed the Ravens to establish a dominant running game, while also providing the protection necessary for their quarterbacks to operate efficiently. His inclusion in the Team of the Century further solidifies his place as one of the greatest linemen to ever play the game.
The achievements of these three legends are not confined to individual accolades or records. Their collective contributions were instrumental in the success of the Ravens as a team, particularly during the franchise’s rise to prominence in the early 2000s. Under their leadership, the Ravens built a defensive juggernaut that became the hallmark of their identity. The Ravens’ defense, known for its toughness, discipline, and ability to shut down even the most high-powered offenses, was a direct reflection of the influence of Lewis, Reed, and Ogden. Together, they helped bring home the franchise’s first Super Bowl title in 2000, a moment that remains etched in the hearts of Ravens fans.
What makes these three players so unique is not just their individual brilliance, but their ability to complement each other. Ray Lewis’s leadership and ability to read offenses perfectly meshed with Ed Reed’s instinctual playmaking and Jonathan Ogden’s dominance in the trenches. The synergy between their skill sets created a foundation for success that the Ravens have built upon for decades. Each of them was the anchor of a different aspect of the team’s success—Lewis was the heart and soul of the defense, Reed was the game-changer in the secondary, and Ogden was the pillar of the offensive line. The combination of these three legends helped propel the Ravens to become one of the NFL’s most consistent and competitive franchises.
While their individual accomplishments are impressive enough on their own, it’s the way these players shaped the Ravens’ culture that has truly left an indelible mark on the franchise. The Ravens, known for their “team-first” mentality, owe much of their identity to the leadership and work ethic of these three men. Lewis was a player who would demand nothing less than perfection from himself and his teammates, while Reed’s calm yet confident demeanor served as an example for those around him. Ogden, though quieter in his approach, let his play on the field speak volumes, embodying the “blue-collar” mentality that became synonymous with the Ravens.
As PFF’s Team of the Century continues to highlight the players who shaped the NFL over the last 100 years, it is clear that the inclusion of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Jonathan Ogden is not just a recognition of their individual greatness, but a reflection of their collective impact on the game of football. These players were more than just stars—they were symbols of what it means to be a Raven: tough, resilient, and willing to do whatever it takes to win. Their inclusion on such a prestigious list cements their place in NFL history and serves as a reminder of the legacy they’ve left behind, both for the Ravens and for the sport as a whole.
For Ravens fans, seeing these three legends immortalized in such a way is a moment of pride. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Jonathan Ogden will forever be etched into the history of the Ravens and the NFL. Their greatness is not just measured by statistics, but by the lasting impression they’ve left on the game, on their teammates, and on their fans. As PFF’s Team of the Century continues to be celebrated, these three Ravens legends will stand as pillars of what it means to be truly great in the world of professional football. Their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, ensuring that the Ravens’ influence on the game will be felt for years to come.
