Chris McAlister, a cornerback known for his physical style of play and exceptional coverage skills, made a name for himself in the National Football League (NFL) during his decade-long career. Born on June 14, 1977, in Pasadena, California, McAlister honed his skills at the University of Arizona, where he played college football for the Arizona Wildcats. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the first round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
McAlister quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Ravens' defense. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games, starting in 15 of them, and recorded five interceptions. His ability to shut down opposing receivers and contribute to the team's defensive schemes was evident from the start. The Ravens' defense, with McAlister as a key component, became one of the most feared units in the league.
The 2000 season marked a high point in McAlister's career. The Ravens' defense set a record for the fewest points allowed in a 16-game season, and McAlister's role as a lockdown corner was instrumental in this achievement. Baltimore's defense led the team to Super Bowl XXXV, where they defeated the New York Giants. McAlister's performance throughout the season and in the Super Bowl helped solidify his reputation as one of the top cornerbacks in the league.
Throughout his career with the Ravens, McAlister was known for his ability to make game-changing plays. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times, in 2003, 2004, and 2006, and was named a first-team All-Pro in 2003. His knack for intercepting passes and returning them for touchdowns added an extra dimension to his game, making him a threat not only in coverage but also in scoring.
In addition to his defensive prowess, McAlister was occasionally used on special teams. He returned a missed field goal 107 yards for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in 2002, setting an NFL record at the time. This play highlighted his speed and athleticism, traits that made him a valuable asset to the Ravens.
Injuries began to take a toll on McAlister's career in the later years. Despite this, he continued to perform at a high level when on the field. However, in 2009, the Ravens released him after ten seasons with the team. McAlister briefly joined the New Orleans Saints later that year but was released after a short stint.
🏈