Steve McNair: 1973-2009

While being with family and friends during the birth of our great nation yesterday, I was overcome with shock and sadness as my phone blew up like fireworks on the 4th of July. Steve McNair, was tragically killed Saturday morning in what looks like an apparent murder-suicide.  McNair was shot several times, including a fatal gunshot to the head.

Steve McNair was a 13 year veteran in the NFL, spending 11 years with the Tennessee Titans and his final two years with our Baltimore Ravens.  He led the Titans to their first Super Bowl in 1999, where he came up just a yard short of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.  In 2003, McNair was named co-MVP of the NFL along with Peyton Manning.  After a very public war with the Titans, McNair was ready to move to greener pastures.  He came to his old rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, in 2006.  While in Baltimore, he gave us some wonderful memories leading the Ravens to a 13-3 regular season record.

Steve McNair will be remembered for his toughness and all around athletic talents on the football field.  To those close to him, he will be remembered as a father, husband, and son.  Words cannot express the sadness I feel over his tragic and violent death.  Steve, you were one of a kind.  I loved to boo you when you came to Baltimore wearing that crappy Tennessee blue, and loved to cheer for you as a member of the Baltimore Ravens with your last second heroics in 2006.  God bless, Steve, and thank you on behalf of the Purple Milita here in Baltimore.