Quick Facts
Biography
Michael Curtis McCrary (born July 7, 1970) is a former American Football defensive end who played for the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens for ten seasons in the NFL between 1993 and 2002. McCrary was a two time Pro Bowler in 1998 and 1999. McCrary was inducted to the Ravens' Ring of Honor in 2004. McCrary is now doing commentary for the Ravens on WBAL-AM.
Early years
When McCrary was a young boy his mother wanted to place him in a day care which was located across the street from his home. However, it wasn't racially integrated and she sued the day care to allow Michael's admittance. The case Runyon v. McCrary was heard before the United States Supreme Court and resulted in his admission. (One of the justices who dissented was former football star Byron "Whizzer" White; a quarter-century later, in 2000, McCrary won the Byron "Whizzer" White NFL Man of the Year Award.)
College career
McCrary played college football at Wake Forest University from 1989–92, setting school records for sacks in a season (16) and in a career (30), records he still holds.
When being scouted by NFL scouts they found his vertical leap was measured at 36 inches; and at 250 pounds, he came in at 4.59 seconds in the 40-yard sprint.
Professional career
Seattle Seahawks
McCrary was drafted in the seventh round by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1993 NFL Draft.
Baltimore Ravens
In April 1997, McCrary signed with the Ravens. He won Super Bowl XXXV with them in 2001.
Retirement
On August 21, 2003, McCrary announced his retirement.