Redskins @ Cowboys Week 8 Enemy Profile: Rolando McClain

Rolando McClain

Position: Middle Linebacker

Age: 25

Form

Rolando McClain has had a rollercoaster career since being drafted by the Raiders. In college, he was recognized as an All American player and was thought of as the best college linebacker in the country. In 2010, he had the misfortune of being drafted by the Oakland Raiders, where careers go to die. His lack of discipline led to several off the field "incidents" and he was cut by the Raiders before the 2013 season. After signing a deal that same year with the Ravens, he retired at the age of 23. He never played a down for Baltimore.

Skills

McClain was a force to be reckoned with at Alabama. When he was drafted by Oakland, he was the eighth overall pick and was touted as a defensive leader who could help turn the team around. Unfortunately, his personal troubles overshadowed his on the field performance. Even the Raiders could only take so much. In three seasons, he racked up 246 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, one safety, one interception, and 20 passes defended. So far, in 2014, he has 31 tackles (24 solo), one sack, two passes defended, and two interceptions.

Potential Against the Redskins

It looks like Rolando is making the most of his second (third? fourth?) chance. McClain's rebirth as a leader will most likely mean problems for the Redskins. The offensive line is weak and McClain is more confident than ever. He has been a disruptive force all season long against teams with stronger lines. Look for the trend to continue. Rolando has the potential to have a big impact on the game tonight.

Fun Fact

At 15, Rolando received a restraining order against his mother after she beat him and threatened him with a knife. At 16, she was arrested after she threatened his entire high school which resulted in a school lock down, according to a Wikipedia page. He was arrested four times between December 2011 and April 2013.