Terry McDaniel played for the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders for ten out of eleven NFL seasons. The Raiders drafted McDaniel with the ninth pick in the first round of the 1988 NFL Draft. He played college football at Tennessee, where he was All-SEC in 1987. McDaniel also ran track at Tennessee and set school records in 300-meter and 300-yard dashes.
College
McDaniel came to Tennessee as a receiver and did not switch to cornerback until 1985. Although, as a senior, McDaniel had 57 tackles, two interceptions, and eight pass breakups., he was named All-SEC and 2nd team All-American. He had 11 pass breakups and six interceptions in his time at Tennessee.
NFL
McDaniel’s determination shone through despite a setback in his rookie season with the Raiders due to a leg injury. He bounced back in his second season, securing a starting position, intercepting three passes, and making one sack. His resilience and skill were further recognized in 1992 when he earned his first of five consecutive Pro Bowl selections. A standout moment in his career came in 1994, when he intercepted seven passes, returning two for touchdowns against the New England Patriots and picking off Drew Bledsoe three times.
From 1992 to 1996, the former Raider picked off 27 passes. 1997, McDaniel struggled with knee issues and was released before the 1998 season. In the 1998 season, McDaniel moved on to play for the Seattle Seahawks.
As a young Raiders fan, I idolized Terry McDaniel and Tim Brown. McDaniel’s contributions to the team were immense, particularly in the mid-1990s when he established himself as one of the best shutdown corners in the league. His career statistics are a testament to his skill and dedication: 35 interceptions for 667 yards and six touchdowns. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro, bringing immense pride to the Raiders and their fans.
McDaniel does not get the recognition he deserves as one of the top corners in NFL history, but his numbers speak for themselves. He may never get to the NFL Hall of Fame, but he is deserving.
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