Steve McNair is a legend in Tennessee Titans and NFL lore, alike. McNair started impressing the world when he was a diamond in the rough at Alcorn State. Alcorn State is here, by the way. McNair would go on to be drafted in 1995 by the then Houston Oilers at third overall. The quarterback spawned an incredible professional career. The Houston Oilers became the Tennessee Titans whom McNair led to an AFC Championship and nearly a Super Bowl victory. The three-time pro bowling former NFL MVP made a name for himself in college and the pros. This article is meant to spotlight on of the best quarterbacks to play the game.
Alcorn State Amplified McNair’s Legendary Style
McNair’s college years at a small college in Mississippi proved to be incredibly successful. From 1991-1994, McNair posted a total of 16,823 yards (passing and rushing) which is still the FCS record to this day. Watch the man do magic with his legs. He would eventually become the second runner-up for the Heisman Trophy his senior year and drafted by the Oilers in 1995. On December 7, 2021, McNair was posthumously inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
A True Titan Legend
The Houston Oilers franchise transitioned to the Tennessee Titans between 1996-1999. Along the way, the Titans gained steam by placing vital pieces around ‘Air’ McNair, namely, Eddie George, Frank Wycheck, Kevin Dyson, and Bruce Matthews. These players plus a stifling defense led by all-pro rookie Jevon Kearse paved the way for the Titans to earn a trip to their first and only Super Bowl in 2000. McNair and company came up one yard short of victory. The Titans may have never returned to the Super Bowl, but McNair’s career flourished. He was voted NFL MVP in 2003 and secured a trip to three pro bowls.
McNair was a superb athlete and fierce leader which cemented his status as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play football. He spent all but his last 2 seasons with the Titans and the number nine jersey has since been retired. The legendary quarterback’s career is full of triumphs and successes that still holds relevance to this day. The Titan’s legend was one the most exhilarating players to ever watch and this fan base misses him deeply. Requiescet in pace, hero.