Football Career
A Football Legacy Built on Excellence
College Career
The Foundation of Greatness
Lackawanna College
Bryant McKinnie's football legacy began at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he spent two
formative years ( 1997-1998 ). During this time, he underwent a remarkable physical and positional transformation.
- Gained 70 pounds, evolving from a lean high school defensive lineman to a powerhouse offensive tackle.
- Earned a scholarship to the University of Miami, a testament to his rapid growth and skill.
University of Miami
At Miami, McKinnie became a cornerstone of one of college football's most dominant teams.
- Redshirted 1999 into adjust to Division I competition, then started every game at left tackle from 2000-2001
- Unanimous First-Team All-American (2001 ) and Outland Trophy winner as the nation's top interior lineman.
- Finished 8th in Heisman Trophy voting a rare feat for an offensive lineman and was named CNN Sports Illustrated "Player of the Year".
- Led the Hurricanes to a BCS National Championship in 2001 , anchoring an offense that went 23-1 over two seasons.
- Roomed with future NFL star Jeremy Shockey, fostering a bond that highlighted Miami's culture of excellence.
Recognition
- Inducted into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame (2012 ) and College Football Hall of Fame (2023).
- In a 2006 FHM interview, McKinnie boldly claimed a team of Miami NFL alumni "would win the Super Bowl"
A Dream Realize
The NFL Draft
Selected 7th overall in the NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, marking the start of a storied pro career.
His 6′ 8″, 343-pound frame and agility set him apart, earning comparisons to Hall of Fame linemen.
Professional Career
From Pro Bowl to Super Bowl Champion
Minnesota Vikings (2002-2010)
- Overcame a 98-day rookie holdout to debut in 2002, quickly proving his value.
- Started 88 consecutive games from 2003-2007, showcasing unmatched durability.
- Earned Pro Bowl honors in 2009 solidifying his status as one of the NFL's elite tackles.
Baltimore Ravens (2011-2013)
- Reunited with Miami teammate Ed Reed, McKinnie thrived in critical moments.
- Played a pivotal role during the Ravens' 2012–13 Super Bowl XLVII run, starting every playoff game and protecting quarterback Joe Flacco en route to a 34–31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
- Signed a two-year, $7 million deal with Baltimore in 2013, a testament to his clutch performance and leadership.
Miami Dolphins (2013)
- Joined the Dolphins mid-season to stabilize their struggling offensive line, bringing veteran leadership to a young squad.
- Though his time in Miami was brief, McKinnie's presence provided stability and mentorship to the team's developing players.
A Lasting Legacy
“If you put together a team of Miami NFL alumni, we’d win the Super Bowl. And I think we’d win.” — Bryant McKinnie, 2006
Bryant McKinnie’s football journey is a testament to preparation, perseverance, and championship pedigree. From dominating college football at Miami to hoisting the Lombardi Trophy with the Ravens, McKinnie’s legacy extends beyond statistics—it’s about the lives he touched and the standards he set.
Motion Moments
Behind the Scenes
