Baltimore Ravens quarterback Steve McNair announced his retirement today from the NFL after 13 seasons. The former All-Pro quarterback told teammates of his decision during an emotional meeting this morning before the start of coach John Harbaugh's first minicamp.
His retirement is a little bit surprising as it comes after an injury plagued 2007 campaign. Not to mention that the Ravens have the 8th pick in this years draft and help is sure to be on the way.
McNair led the Ravens to the playoffs in 2006 with a 13-3 record 3,050 yards and 16 touchdowns. However, he battled injuries for most of the season and was only able to play 6 games as he watched the ravens finish a disappointing 5-11.
McNair's 3,590 career rushing yards and 37 rushing touchdowns rank fifth and third respectively all-time among NFL quarterbacks. Among active quarterbacks, McNair ranks first in both rushing yards and rushing TDs. His 2,387 rushing yards from 1997-2001 also made him one of three quarterbacks in NFL history to rush for more than 2,350 yards in a five-season span.
Career Highlights
- Led the Titans to the AFC championship and an appearance in Super Bowl XXXIV, where they lost by one yard to the St. Louis Rams.
- 2003 AP Co-MVP along with Peyton Manning
- Selected to 3 Pro Bowls
Career Statistics (13 seasons)
Passing
G GS Att Cmp Cmp% Yds Y/Att Lg TD Int Rate
161 153 4544 2733 60.1 31304 6.9 87 174 119 82.8
Rushing
G GS Att Yds Y/Att TD
161 153 669 3590 5.4 37
I enjoyed watching McNair very much over the last thirteen seasons and will remember him in the highest regard. I'll remember him for sacrificing his body in order to complete a big pass, putting his body on the line when scrambling for a first down and coming up with a big play some way some how whenever his team needed it. He always played hard, played hurt and conducted himself with nothing but the utmost professionalism both on and off the field. Good luck to you Steve with wherever retirement takes you...and thanks for the memories.