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Ed Reed Retires, Baltimore Ravens Fans Pay Tribute

By Brett Foote

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Jun 5, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (left) and safety Ed Reed (right) during the White House Visit at The White House. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

It’s hard to quantify in words exactly what Ed Reed has meant to the Baltimore Ravens. Simply one of the best safeties in NFL history, Reed paired with fellow all-time great Ray Lewis to form one of the most intimidating defensive duos that ever took the field. He made a living out of confusing and baiting even the best quarterbacks in the business, and they are undoubtedly happy to see him hang up the cleats.

Ed Reed called Baltimore his home for 11 NFL seasons and was a nine time Pro Bowler and five time first team All-Pro. His ball hawking skills and instincts were quite simply elite.  Reed still holds the NFL records for most postseason interceptions (9) and most interception return yards in a career (1,590).  He also ranks 6th best with 64 career interceptions despite appearing in fewer games than anyone ahead of him on the list.

Bill Belichick considers Reed the best safety he has ever seen play the game. Tom Brady wore a wristband reminding him to look and see where Reed was on every single play.  There was simply no fooling Ed Reed, even by the best minds in the business.  He just seemed to know where the ball was going on every play. It’s almost a given that Reed will be a first ballot Hall of Famer as well.

As expected, the outpouring of support ahead of Thursday’s official announcement of Ed Reed’s retirement from the game of football has been immense.  There is perhaps no better tribute to a player than the reactions of fans and peers alike, so we’ve included a few notable ones for your viewing pleasure.  It’s a fitting way to send off a Baltimore Ravens franchise legend.

Next: Za'Darius Smith: Potential Draft Steal

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