Will Ray Lewis be Next Example of 'Prime Effect'

Ray Lewis, one of the NFL’s most iconic linebackers and a two-time Super Bowl champion, has reportedly emerged as a candidate for the head coaching vacancy at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Hall of Famer is garnering interest from the program after FAU parted ways with Tom Herman, who struggled with a 6-16 record across two seasons.

FAU’s decision to move on from Herman comes at a significant cost, with a buyout of more than $4 million. The program is now searching for a dynamic leader to elevate its football program. Enter Lewis, whose fiery personality and unparalleled leadership during his 17-year NFL career make him an intriguing option. The success of Deion Sanders at Colorado has shown that former NFL stars can inject excitement and rejuvenation into college programs. Lewis, with his Hall of Fame pedigree and charismatic demeanor, seems like a natural fit to follow in Sanders' footsteps.

A Florida native, Lewis is deeply tied to the state’s football culture. He was a standout at the University of Miami, earning All-American honors and nearly capturing the prestigious Butkus Award in 1995. His legendary NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens included two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, 12 Pro Bowl appearances, and a record-setting 1,568 solo tackles.

However, one significant hurdle remains: Lewis has no prior coaching experience. Since retiring in 2013, he has worked as a football analyst for ESPN and Fox Sports 1 but has yet to transition into coaching at any level. While his leadership on the field was undeniable, translating that into coaching success would require a learning curve.

The potential hiring of Lewis represents both a gamble and an opportunity for FAU. If he can inspire and lead young athletes as he did during his playing career, the program could experience a resurgence. Whether Lewis is ready to make the leap to college coaching remains to be seen, but his candidacy already has fans and analysts buzzing about what could be a seismic shift for FAU football.