Ravens' Dannell Ellerbe 'hopes' to return to team

Dannell Ellerbe isn't trying to be the next Ray Lewis; he just wants to return to Baltimore. (US Presswire)

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Dannell Ellerbe said Thursday he hopes to return to the team next season.

"I hope to be back," Ellerbe said on NFL AM Thursday. "My heart is here in Baltimore, but I haven't really had conversation or dialogue with the Ravens yet. I have faith I will [be back]."

Ellerbe, who will be a free agent, has assumed the role of Ray Lewis-in training, but contends his role will not be to replace the retiring legend.

"It's not about filling shoes, it's about coming back and making plays," Elleberbe said. "Ray Lewis does such a great job, you can't try and step in and fill the shoes of a legend. All I can try to do is go out there and make plays."

Ellerbe, 27, finished the regular season with 92 tackles -- good for second on the team behind safety Bernard Pollard.

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