Get To Know: Jameel McClain

SI Staff | Nov 22, 2010

Get To Know: Jameel McClain

Jameel McClain

David Bergman/SI

Dominant even in his youth, McClain tortured offenses for 111 tackles, three sacks, four forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries during his senior year at George Washington High in Philadelphia. His outstanding play was rewarded with a scholarship to Syracuse University.

Jameel McClain

Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images; Mark Cowan/Icon SMI

McClain quickly developed a reputation for the Orange, playing in 11 games his freshman season. He was most effective during his junior year, though, racking up 9.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss en route to second team All-Big East honors.

Jameel McClain

AP

McClain finished his four-year career at Syracuse ranked seventh in school history for tackles for a down lineman (177) and 11th in tackles for loss (21.5). He switched from lineman to linebacker early in 2006.

Jameel McClain

Fred Vuich, Peter Read Miller/SI

After going undrafted, McClain signed with Baltimore as a priority free agent in 2008. Though he was used mostly in special teams situations, he battled his way for 2.5 sacks in limited playing time his rookie year.

Jameel McClain

G Fiume/Getty Images

McClain earned a starting spot in training camp this season, beating out Dannell Ellerbe and Tavares Gooden for the job. He assumes the second middle linebacker position alongside Ray Lewis in the Ravens' 3-4 defensive scheme.

Jameel McClain

Rich Kane/Icon SMI

McClain has played well so far in 2010, notching 37 tackles through Week 11. He was especially effective in Week 1 versus the Jets, accumulating six tackles -- four solo -- in Baltimore's dramatic 10-9 win.