NFL: Ray Lewis dismisses banned substance report

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis has dismissed reports that he may have used a banned substance to rehab his recent triceps injury.

The report on Sports Illustrated magazine’s website said Lewis spoke to Sports with Alternatives to Steroids (SWATS) owner Mitch Ross last October about products that might hasten his recovery from a torn right triceps.

Coming days before the Ravens meet the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl championship game in New Orleans, the report states Lewis used a deer-antler spray containing small amounts of IGF-1, an insulin-like anabolic growth hormone that stimulates muscle growth and is banned by professional sports leagues.

When asked about the report at the Super Bowl’s media day yesterday, the future Hall of Famer rubbished the claims.

“That was two years ago. It was the same report. I wouldn’t give that report any of my press. Why would I give that any press?,” said Lewis.

“Everybody here has a past and it is what you do with your future that is the most important. I don’t look back. I look forward. Everything that is behind me is supposed to be behind me.”

“Every test I have ever took in the NFL, there has never been a question of me taking anything.”

According to the report Mitch Ross – co-owner of SWATS – claimed Lewis requested products which would help speed up his recovery shortly after tearing his triceps in October.

In 2011 Ross reportedly claimed that he gave then Oakland Raiders head coach Hue Jackson free products to give to players, including Lewis.

Lewis is set to retire after Sunday’s clash with the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl.