The Baltimore Ravens are among the newest franchises to join the NFL. But despite being established just 30 seasons ago, they’ve already become a mainstay in the league, with some of the most decorated players in history donning their colours.
However, it turns out their history could have been even more legendary if Ray Lewis had completed his mission of recruiting one of the greatest quarterbacks this league has ever seen.
Fans Distraught Over Potential Ravens Team With Peyton Manning
While no team bats a thousand, the Ravens have been among the unluckiest franchises when it comes to near-misses. From the draft to free agents and even head coaches, the organization has come within inches of bringing in some truly spectacular talent.
From draft prospects like Jalen Ramsey and Cooper Kupp to rescinded trades like Terrell Owens, there’s a laundry list of some of the most impactful players in recent memory who have almost become members of the Ravens.
But according to Lewis, Peyton Manning is another name that belongs on that list.
In 2004, Lewis, the ten-time All-Pro, had his sights set on making the team much more dynamic. That plan led him straight to Manning’s doorstep. During an appearance on the “PBD Podcast,” he explained the recruitment pitch.
“I was literally 30 seconds away from Peyton Manning saying yes to come to Baltimore. We sat at the bar, and we stayed for hours, and I’m saying, ‘Look, if I put you on one side, you leave me on the other side, and me and you go at this thing together?’ I sold him.”
BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM: PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
Ultimately, though, Manning chose to continue his career with the Indianapolis Colts, as Lewis confessed, “Then at the last minute, he ended up staying home.” But for the Ravens fan base, the reveal was a jolt of shock.
As one fan claimed, “This is a generational add to the almost Ravens team,” while another fan wondered, “My goodness, could you imagine? Also, would Manning have worn 18 or 19 in Baltimore? Now remember, 19 is NOT a retired Ravens number (ask Scott Mitchell). To honor the greatest, he may have wanted 19.”
For some, though, Lewis’ confession made it official. “Boy, the ‘Almost Ravens’ is the greatest team of all time.” Unfortunately for their fans, it is a situation that continues to plague the team to this day.
BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM: PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
This offseason, after finalizing a blockbuster trade with the Las Vegas Raiders for Maxx Crosby, a failed physical stopped the trade from going through, and they had to pivot to sign Trey Hendrickson instead.
As one fan bemoaned, “I did not need to hear this today,” it was a heartbreaking realization of what could have been. Throughout its existence, Baltimore has established itself as a defense-first organization, and it is a mantra they’ve carried on their two runs to the Super Bowl as well.
But adding a player who would go on to win five MVPs and establish himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time could have made them an equally dangerous offense, and potentially added a lot more hardware to their resume.
