There are few players who have a connection to a university like linebacker Ray Lewis does to Miami. He grabbed All-America honors all three years he was at the school and proudly flashes the "U" sign when on TV.Now the Pro Bowl linebacker can happily welcome his son, Ray Lewis III, to the Hurricanes family after the Lake Mary (Fla.) athlete committed to the program Tuesday afternoon after picking up an offer the day before.
"Ever since I was born, it has always been Miami," Lewis III told CaneSport.com. "My mom and dad both went to Miami and so much has gone on through the years. But I took a tour today and I just felt like this was home. The way the players practiced, talking to the players and the coaching staff. I just felt like I was home. This is a great day."
The 5-foot-9, 186-pounder plays on both sides of the ball as a shifty running back and safety. Lewis III drew offers from South Florida and Tennessee among others and was drawing interest from several programs. While some recruits shy away from trying to fill the big shoes left by their fathers, Lewis III is embracing the high expectations that comes with the commitment.
"Coming in as a legacy is very exciting," he said. "My dad is an icon at Miami. People look up to him. It's going to be an honor to be there. I will be there to finish off what he started."
Lewis III becomes the fifth commitment for Miami and Al Golden's class of 2013. He left his mark mainly as a running back last season, turning in the ninth-best rushing performance at the prep level last season with 15 carries for 353 yards and 4 touchdowns in a win. He had a total of 33 touchdowns on offense and racked up 92 tackles on defense last season as a junior.
