Gerald McNeil- Football (1980-83) Track (1981-83)

Former Baylor Bear, Gerald McNeil was featured in an article on Browns Nation’s History blog, highlighting his athletic career from high school, to Baylor, to the NFL, and beyond!

At Baylor, McNeil was a four-year letterman in football from 1980 to 1983. He currently ranks first in Baylor career punt returns (101), second in punt return yards (886), and fourth in Baylor career all-purpose yards (4,017).  Additionally, McNeil is ranked 10th in Baylor career receptions (163), career receiving touchdowns (17), career average yards per reception (16.26), and average yards per punt return (8.77.)  

At 5′ 7″ and 145 pounds, Gerald “The Ice Cube” McNeil proved that even players of his stature can be successful in the NFL. Over his four seasons with the Cleveland Browns (1986 to 1989) as a returner and receiver, McNeil helped Cleveland win three division titles and advance to three AFC championship games, earning him a Pro Bowl invitation in 1987.

To read the full Browns Nation article about Gerald, follow this link.

Randy Grimes- Football (1980-82)

Randy Grimes, a former center for the Baylor Bears and member of the ’80 SWC Championship team, was living the American dream.  Drafted in the 2nd round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he went on to marry his college sweetheart and start a family, while playing in the NFL.  But during his 10-year career, pain became part of the game, and eventually the prescription pills used to treat chronic injuries led to addiction. When Randy’s career ended, the pills continued feeding an opioid addiction that would last 20+ years and erode his identity, health, and family. When addiction claimed the life of a close friend, Randy finally found the courage to raise his hand and ask for help. This single decision helped Randy reclaim his life.

Grimes speaks regularly on topics related to addiction—as well as valuable lessons learned on and off the field. Now, his new book, which is set for a summer release, weaves the story of destruction to redemption, a miracle that happened because of the powerful intervention involving his entire family and the death of his close friend.

To read more on Randy’s story, click here.

Ben Baker- Football (1985-87)

Ben Baker, former wide receiver for the Bears, was recently recognized as a Top Residential Real Estate Producer and Best Real Estate Agent by D Magazine in Dallas. This is the fourth year Ben has been recognized as one of the Best Real Estate Agents and the second year to be named as a Top Producer.  

Sic ’em Baylor Letterwinners!

To return to the home page, click here.