Ray Lewis sends incredible message to Texans rookie Will Anderson

Everybody has a hero. Houston Texans rookie Will Anderson‘s hero is NFL legend, Ray Lewis.

On Thursday, Fanatics posted an ad on Twitter. However, the four-minute video wasn’t your typical quick-hit marketing piece. In the advertisement, fresh NFL draftees such as Bryce Young, CJ Stroud and Will Levis hear from their heroes, each NFL legend with a customized message.

Former Alabama EDGE Will Anderson Jr. heard from Lewis.

“Enjoy every step of the way,” Lewis told Anderson.

Here's a pre-season pep talk from the Rookie Premiere that these @NFL rookies will never forget #FanaticsLockerRoom

Good luck to all the rookies! pic.twitter.com/zZEeInX85I

— Fanatics (@Fanatics) June 8, 2023

Anderson couldn’t help but smile. The Houston Texans selected the 6-foot-4 linebacker with the third pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. All signs say the franchise won’t regret its decision.

Despite playing only three years at Alabama, Anderson finished with the second-most career sacks in Alabama history. Furthermore, Anderson secured the No. 2 spot for most tackles in program history.

Consequently, Anderson earned the Nagurski Trophy, an award given to the best defensive player in college football, twice while with the Crimson Tide. He is only the second player in the award’s history to take home the honor twice.

While Fanatics didn’t post Lewis’ entire message to Anderson, there was undoubtedly more wisdom than the public got to see. After retiring from the NFL, Lewis became a highly-desired motivational speaker. The 48-year-old’s words litter nearly every inspirational Youtube or TikTok you’ll encounter.

His tenacity is the stuff of legend. Lewis is a two-time Super Bowl champion, 12-time Pro-Bowler, and holds the Baltimore Ravens franchise record with 2,643 career tackles. His words shouldn’t be taken lightly, and neither should his gifts.

At the end of the Fanatics advertisement, each player opens up a present from their hero: a signed jersey. Anderson reacted appropriately.

“I’m finna get up and start doing the [Ray Lewis Celebration],” Anderson said as he mimicked Lewis’ famous “Squirrel Dance.”

Perhaps Texans fans will see Anderson do his best Ray Lewis impersonation in-person on Sept. 10 as the Texans kick off their season against the Baltimore Ravens. Texans diehards can only hope Anderson can replicate Lewis’ play as well as he can imitate his dance moves.