On Wednesday, Ray Lewis was coy about his plans post-retirement – other than spending time with his family.
But he did say he's got a "new chapter that I've already pre-planned out."
The details of that plan are starting to emerge, as Sports Illustrated is reporting that Lewis is on the verge of signing a multi-year contract with ESPN.
According to the report, Lewis is expected to have a significant role on Monday Night Countdown. He would also be featured on multiple platforms, including ESPN Radio.
No formal announcement is expected to come until the conclusion of the Ravens' season.
Lewis reportedly wants to have flexibility in his schedule to watch his son, Ray Lewis III, play at the University of Miami.
Lewis has seemingly always been a natural fit for television. He's shot numerous commercials during his playing days, from spots with Old Spice, Visa, Madden, Under Armour and more.
"Ray Lewis has an intensity about him and a way of communicating that is very infectious," CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus told Sports Illustrated.
"He is a bigger-than-life personality, very articulate and [has] an incredible passion for the game. If Ray Lewis decided to take that same passion and put it into a broadcasting career, I think he would be a terrific studio analyst or I imagine game analyst, too."
Lewis said he has many opportunities waiting for him in retirement. He said he put on hold or denied a lot of things while he was playing because he didn't want to put anything before the game.
"Going forward, the world is my oyster," he said Wednesday during his retirement announcement.
"It's a new chapter. It's a new chapter that I've already pre-planned out. There are a lot of things that are waiting that are lined up. I have a lot of great people I'm working with as well."
