It's Official: Jonathan Ogden 1st Ravens Draft Pick Inducted Into HOF
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A huge night for the Baltimore Ravens. Jonathan Ogden receives football's highest honor. He's officially inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Linh Bui has more.
One of the finest offensive linemen in NFL history is now a Hall of Famer.
"I just really want to thank the fans and the city of Baltimore," Ogden said during his induction speech.
Jonathan Ogden stands at 6'9", but played bigger than that.
A 12-year career with the Baltimore Ravens--11 Pro Bowls and a Super Bowl ring--the Ravens' first draft pick in 1996 became the foundation of a franchise.
"It was a new team and we were new to the city. We were all rookies together," said Ogden. "I watched us grow, myself as a player and the fans as an NFL city. From infancy to one of, if not the best, football towns in the National Football League."
In the crowd were his wife, children and mother. Teammate Ray Lewis, Ravens Owner Steve Bisciotti, General Manager Ozzie Newsome, who drafted Ogden, were also there. And then there were the fans who traveled to Canton, Ohio for this amazing moment.
"The best and most passionate fans that I have ever seen. And I want to thank you guys for being there," he said. "It was for you, who at the end of the day, I enjoyed performing. And you guys are the reason we could go out there every Sunday and lay it all on the line."
View Slideshow: NFL Hall Of Famer Jonathan Ogden
With the unveiling of the bust, it becomes official. Ogden was an immoveable force at left tackle, a star on the field and a leader within the team.
"I am so very proud to have been the Baltimore Ravens' first ever draft choice. And I am so humbled to be the Baltimore Ravens' first ever Hall of Fame inductee. Thank you all. Thanks again," Ogden said.
An athlete larger than life is now immortalized in sports history.
At 39, Ogden is the youngest member of the Hall of Fame.
