Words cannot express the complete shock, saddness and total sickening feeling I have concerning the tragic death of Steve McNair. I learned about it Saturday afternoon heading to a 4th cookout and I screamed, "No, no, no!"
No, not another death. I was and still trying to embrace the reality that Michael Jackson is dead.
No, why did such a great player and person have to die so tragically and so young?
No, not another black-eye to the NFL brand.
The life and legacy of McNair's on the field and off-the-field accomplishments should be illuminated, not the details surrounding his death. And, he has many. He truly put into practice that when much is given, much is required. He was given a chance to not just play football, but to give his mother her flowers while she was alive to enjoy. He was able to influence the lives of those from his hometown and every place his feet touched and all are better because of it.
He was able to accomplish much professional success in Houston, Tennessee and my hometown Baltimore. He was the picture of hard work, perserverance and determination. He fought through pain when many athletes choose to sit out for a bruise. He was a true titan.
As Eddie George said in a recent press conference, everyone makes mistakes. And, that is what I continue to say in my Playbook Commentaries. My personal saying is, "don't cast a stone that you are not ready to receive back."
We must be slow to judge and quick to understand.
My only remark concerning how he died will be that we all, players and non, must realize that all actions bring consequences...it is up to us to determine if the consequences will be good or bad.
Steve, thank you for what you brought to the game of football...it will never be forgotten and it can never be repeated.
God bless your family.
