McClain agrees to deal with Baltimore

Jameel McClain, the linebacker/defensive end from George Washington High and Syracuse, has agreed to a free-agent contract with the Baltimore Ravens.

McClain did not hear his name called on Day 2 of the NFL draft Sunday, in part because teams were concerned about trying to change the 6-2, 255-pounder from a college defensive lineman to a pro linebacker.

"Even as the sixth and seventh rounds were going on," McClain said, "I was getting calls from teams asking about the chances of signing me as a free agent. It was like, 'We don't have any more picks, but we still like you.' That kind of stuff.
"My agent and I decided to go with Baltimore within a half-hour [of the draft's conclusion]. I was hearing from Cleveland, Atlanta, Houston ... But I'm best suited for Baltimore because of the strengths I bring to the table and how they run their system.
"I can fill either hole. I'm universal. I'm a football player."

McClain is scheduled to report to Ravens minicamp Thursday.