Chris McAlister, drafted 10th overall in 1999 from Arizona, joined Baltimore with ideal size, exceptional speed, and strong confidence, fitting perfectly into the secondary. Playing opposite Duane Starks and supported by safety Rod Woodson, he became a true shutdown cornerback, capable of isolating the opponent's primary receiver, which enabled defensive coordinator Marvin Lewis to generate pressure upfront.

McAlister had a rare physique for a cornerback around 2000. Instead of backing away, he specialized in press-man coverage, utilizing his long arms and strong jam technique at the line to disrupt receivers early. Once the ball was in the air, his agility and speed made him a scoring threat, often turning turnovers into long returns.

McAlister made a strong debut as a rookie in 1999, intercepting five passes and deflecting 21 throws. The next season, he became a key part of the top-ranked 2000 defense, recording four interceptions, including a 98-yard touchdown return against the Jets, and securing another pick in the postseason as Baltimore advanced to and won Super Bowl XXXV.

In 2002, he made another legendary play against Denver by catching a failed Jason Elam field goal in the back of the end zone and returning it 107 yards for a touchdown as time ran out in the first half, setting a then-NFL record.

In 2003, McAlister's dominance peaked as he allowed few completions on the perimeter, returned an interception 83 yards for a touchdown, and earned his first First-Team All-Pro honor and first Pro Bowl appearance. He extended his contract in 2004 and maintained his elite performance, earning Second-Team All-Pro honors that year and a Pro Bowl selection in 2006, with six interceptions including two returned for touchdowns.

Injuries hindered his last two seasons in Baltimore before he was released after the 2008 season. After a short final period with New Orleans in 2009, McAlister retired from football. Over 10 seasons with the Ravens, he recorded 26 interceptions, 5 defensive touchdowns, 138 pass deflections, and appeared in 3 postseason games, totaling 135 regular-season appearances. Following his career, he faced financial difficulties publicly, but his reputation as a top-tier boundary defender endures.