In a groundbreaking tribute that merges technology with legacy, the Baltimore Ravens have announced plans to unveil a life-sized hologram statue of Ray Lewis at M&T Bank Stadium later this year. The installation — the first of its kind in NFL history — will allow fans to experience the Hall of Famer’s most iconic speeches and moments in real-time through a fully interactive projection system.
The hologram, dubbed “The Heart of the Flock,” will be unveiled during the Ravens’ home opener in September. Fans will be able to activate the statue using the official Ravens mobile app. Once activated, the hologram of Lewis will deliver one of several pre-recorded legendary speeches, including the now-iconic “What time is it?” pregame chant that sent chills down the spine of players and fans alike.
“Ray Lewis isn’t just a Raven — he is the Ravens,” said team president Sashi Brown. “We wanted to do something that matches the intensity and passion he brought to Baltimore. This hologram is our way of letting new generations experience that fire firsthand.”
The project, developed in partnership with NFL Films and a tech startup based in Silicon Valley, will feature 4K projection, spatial audio, and AI-enhanced motion capture that mimics Lewis’s exact gestures and vocal inflections from his playing days. According to sources close to the project, Ray personally recorded several new messages for the experience — some motivational, others reflective.
A Viral Storm in the Making
Within hours of the announcement, social media exploded. The phrase “HoloRay” began trending on X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook posts about the statue racked up hundreds of thousands of shares. Fans commented with excitement and nostalgia:
“If he screams ‘I’m blessed!’ I’m tearing up on the spot.”
“This is how you honor a legend. Every team should take notes.”
“I don’t even like the Ravens, but this is epic.”
Experts in digital engagement aren’t surprised. The story taps into what makes Facebook posts go viral: emotional connection, nostalgia, technology, and pride. Ray Lewis is already one of the most electrifying figures in NFL history — combining his legendary speeches with futuristic tech makes the headline irresistible.