Drafted 3^rd Overall in the 1985 NFL Draft, the former Texas A&M Aggie settled into a solid role as a defensive end for the Houston Oilers.  He did well and made his first Pro Bowl in 1988, but a switch from the 3-4 to 4-3 Defense forced Childress to move to Defensive Tackle, and it fit him perfectly.

Blessed with a long wingspan and incredible strength, from 1990 to 1993, he would be selected for the Pro Bowl, and he landed a First Team All-Pro Selection in 1992.  During that era, Childress was regarded as an elite Defensive Tackle, and the iron man stuffed opposing rushers at will.  He was very popular in the Houston area for his work ethic and philanthropy, and though that franchise is gone, he is still a legend in the state of Texas.

It is a shame how Steve McNair’s tragic ending may overshadow what a very productive (and one tackle away from a Super Bowl) career was. Unfortunately, professional sports have far too many stories like this. 

Steve McNair was one of the elite Quarterbacks in the late 90’s/early 00’s, yet he never seemed to quite reach the level of popularity he should have. Amazingly, this is the case even though he won an MVP and almost won a Super Bowl. “Air” McNair proved to be a devastating force with both his arm and legs and was one of the early prototypes of what many GMs look for in their Quarterbacks. Sadly, with QBs gaining even more protection after he retired, his numbers seem less impressive than they did, and this, combined with the way he passed away, will likely make him an afterthought for Hall of Fame voters.