'This is not it. I'm not done,' Ed Reed says of future

NEW ORLEANS —— Ravens veteran free safety Ed Reed has never embraced a conventional approach.

So the Louisiana native wasn't keen on the idea of retiring after a Super Bowl victory in front of his family and friends.

Following the Ravens' 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Reed declared in the locker room emphatically that he has more football left in him.

"This is not it," Reed shouted. "This is not it. I'm not done."

Reed, 34, has battled multiple health issues, including a torn shoulder labrum and a nerve impingement.

Brandishing a huge unlit cigar in his mouth, the St. Rose, La., native said he's more than likely to keep playing the game as long as his body cooperates.

"It's all about right now," Reed said. "I'll reassess things the way I always do and we'll tune in and get back to you all. It's all about the moment. I'm not even thinking about this. I love this game. If I'm able to do it, I'll be doing it."

Reed intercepted 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick in the first half.

"He overthrew it," Reed said. "Corey Graham did a great job on the backside by discouraging and making him throw it behind Randy. He threw it too high. I'm just happy to catch it, man."

For Reed, this marks a perfect ending to the season.

The Destrehan High product takes an immense amount of pride in being from the New Orleans area.

"To do it for the hometown, in the hometown, to do it for Baltimore — there can't be a better feeling than that," Reed said. "I'm blessed and grateful. I'm just so grateful."

Reed said he's not done having fun. He has plans to celebrate here in New Orleans.

"This season, man I'm ready to kick my feet up, but I can't," Reed said. "I'm ready for [New Orleans brass band] Rebirth. Ready to second-line all the way up Poydras [Street], man. We about to walk all the way back to the hotel like we do it in New Orleans."

Reed's younger brother, Brian Reed, died two years ago after jumping into the Mississippi River. Brian Reed had battled mental illness.

"It's bittersweet because we have been through a lot," Reed said. "Been through a lot as men. Been through a lot as a team."


(baltimoresun.com)