Rolando McClain has had a rough yet and it may only get worse. The linebacker has been arrested twice, suspended for two games by the Oakland Raiders and ultimately released from the team. He was then signed to the Baltimore Ravens in mid-April in order to add depth to the roster after the team lost Ray Lewis and Dannell Ellerbe. However, less than two weeks after signing, McClain was arrest for a third time in 16 months. The Baltimore Sun reports McClain has plead guilty to a window tint violtion while still awaiting charges for his disorderly conduct arrest in April. Despite all of this, assistant general manager Eric DeCosta says McClain deserves a second chance in this league.
Baltimore is the team to give McClain that second chance and they insist that right now his roster spot with the team is secure.
"I think this about McClain, he deserves a second chance. If you asked him, he would probably admit to making some mistakes. We think he warrants a second chance. Obviously, he's an Alabama guy," DeCosta said.
Baltimore has been long-time fans of former Alabama players. The relationship with the school dates back to current general manager Ozzie Newsome's time playing for the Crimson Tide in the 1970s. Since then, they have drafted numerous Alabama players, including Terrance Cody and Courtney Upshaw.
Prior to McClain being arrested for a third time, Newsome made it clear that he would have to earn his roster spot. They have given him an opportunity to be on the 53-man team, but his final spot remains in question. They have put a mentor program in place for McClain in hopes that he can put his troubled past behind him once and for all.
Currently, McClain sits fourth on the depth chart for inside linebacker behind Jameel McClain, Arthur Brown and Josh Brynes. It is unclear how his recent arrest will play into his spot with the team. Already on a short leash, his off-the-field issues could affect his availability. As of now, he will pay a $186 fine for the tinted windows. Since he pleads guilty, police dropped the charges of giving false information. Time will tell if McClain will remain with the team once the other charges are brought forth.
