Ray Lewis explains his "dominance"

Ray Lewis said Monday that it would be "a disservice" if he would stop being an every-down linebacker.

Lewis, who turns 36 next month, only missed five plays last season for the Ravens.

"It's one thing to talk about somebody if they're slowing down and can't do it anymore," Lewis said on the NFL Network. "It's another thing when I say to this day that I still haven't played my best football yet."

Lewis was invited to his 12th Pro Bowl after leading the Ravens with 145 tackles. He also recovered three fumbles, broke up four passes and intercepted two throws.

Still, Lewis explained that his impact goes beyond the stats.

"I'm the only one inside the film room with my coaches to see how dominant I am on the football field," Lewis said. "Some people say dominance is your play. But I believe dominance is your presence on how you influence other ment. That's one of my greatest abilities, being able to pull that type of strength out of men."

Lewis said players jokingly call him pops, uncle and godfather.

"That is the reward of playing this business at such a high level for so long," Lewis said.

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(baltimoresun.com)