I knew beneath all that screaming and yelling on the field was a big soft hearted man.
Art Modell, who died at the age of 87, funeral was held Tuesday. Thousands came and paid their respects including former and current NFL players, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
“He contributed so much to the NFL,” Goodell said. “He was obviously a close adviser to (former NFL commissioner) Pete Rozelle. He was a big part of NFL history. He played a big role in the NFL and the NFL is going to miss him.”
“If Mr. Modell (didn’t) bring the team to Baltimore, it doesn’t happen for us,” Ravens safety Ed Reed said following the game. “This city here loves football, too, and Mr. Modell saw that in this city, and he made us all Ravens. We’re all grateful just to be here.”
The most moving part of the service was the eulogy which was given by Ray Lewis, who was Balitmore’s Second Pick in the 1996 draft.
“Rest in peace ‘Pop Art,”’ he said.
Rest In Paradise, Art Modell.