Since NFL football returned to Baltimore 20 years ago, Ozzie Newsome has been at the center it.
The long-time general manager of the Ravens has been with the organization since former Owner Art Modell moved the team from Cleveland, and Newsome has been the architect behind two Super Bowl champion squads during that run.
Newsome has accomplished just about everything possible in the NFL – he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999 after a 13-year career as a tight end for the Browns – but he doesn't have plans to walk away from the game anytime soon.
"Every time I walk in this office, it's a good day," Newsome said during Tuesday's season-review press conference. "I enjoy coming to work every day, and the first time I walk in here and it doesn't feel good, then that's when I'll call the boss and let him know."
During Newsome's time with the Ravens, the organization has cycled through two owners, three head coaches, and hundreds of players. He's been the constant amidst the routine change that is customary around the NFL.
The 58-year-old executive told reporters that he hasn't even thought about how much longer he wants to continue as the general manager. When he does decide to retire, the Ravens have been grooming his in-house replacement in Assistant General Manager Eric DeCosta.
Reporters have asked Newsome about his plans several years in a row, and he joked that even having to answer questions from reporters during an hour-long press conference isn't enough to push him out the door.
"I walked in today and I felt good – even though I knew I had to spend time with [the media]," Newsome said with a laugh. "I don't like that a lot."
