Baltimore, MD – June 29, 2025
After years away, a familiar fire lit up M&T Bank Stadium — and this time, it was for a symbolic farewell many fans had hoped for. The Baltimore Ravens announced that one of the franchise’s all-time greats has signed a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as a Raven, closing the book on a Hall of Fame-worthy career.
That legend is Terrell Suggs, the ferocious outside linebacker who personified Baltimore’s grit, swagger, and tenacity for over a decade and a half. In a press conference attended by former teammates and coaches, Suggs shared heartfelt reflections. “This city raised me. This team molded me. And this fanbase? It gave me a reason to fight every Sunday,” he said. “I couldn’t imagine saying goodbye anywhere else but right here.”
Suggs spent 16 seasons (2003–2018) anchoring the Ravens’ defense, racking up 132.5 sacks in purple and black — the most in franchise history. A seven-time Pro Bowler and the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2011, he was part of the legendary 2012 Ravens team that won Super Bowl XLVII. His fiery presence, especially during Ravens-Steelers showdowns, made him a legend not only in Baltimore but across the league.
After leaving Baltimore in 2019, Suggs played briefly for the Arizona Cardinals before being claimed by the Kansas City Chiefs, where he earned his only Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl LIV. Though his career ended with a trophy, his heart never left Baltimore.
“There’s something different about playing here,” Suggs said. “Every hit felt heavier. Every win meant more. And every fan? They made you feel like a warrior.”
The Ravens’ front office confirmed the one-day contract was a joint idea between Suggs and GM Eric DeCosta, who said: “T-Sizzle is the embodiment of Ravens football. Intensity. Loyalty. Passion. Today’s about honoring that legacy — and welcoming him home.”
On social media, Ravens Flock roared with love. One fan wrote, “Sizzle forever! No one got under the Steelers’ skin like he did.” Another added, “This feels right. He started here. He should end here.”
With the Ravens preparing for a new era under head coach Mike Macdonald, Suggs’ retirement adds another emotional chapter to a franchise rooted in defensive greatness. His story now ends where it began — in the heart of Baltimore.
And for Terrell Suggs, that’s all that ever mattered. “This was never just a job,” he said, looking out over the field. “This was home.”
Stay tuned to ESPN for more on Suggs’ official induction into Ravens immortality.
