Ravens Not Buying Out Ray Lewis’ Contract

Mike Preston of The Baltimore Sun reports that there is no truth to the rumor that the Baltimore Ravens are offering a financial package to prod middle linebacker Ray Lewis into retirement.

Lewis, who turns 36 in May, was named to his 12th Pro Bowl after posting 139 tackles, 2 quarterback sacks, and 2 interceptions in 2010, his 15th season in a Hall of Fame career.

Signed to a seven-year, $44.5 million contract in March of 2009, Lewis earned $4.25 million and received a $1.25 million option bonus in 2010.

According to a league source with knowledge of Lewis’ contract, the Ravens will need to make a decision this off-season on a second option bonus, which is worth $2 million, for the 2015 season. There is a $2 million non-exercise fee, so the Ravens have no financial incentives to not to pick up that option.