Gerald McNeil
Age: 62
Gerald McNeil is a former professional American football player. He was a wide receiver who often returned punts and kickoffs. McNeil's small stature of 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) and 145 lb (65.8 kg) made him difficult to grab hold of and tackle and led to his nickname "The Ice Cube". He also has a brother Pat McNeil who played football.
College Career
McNeil attended Baylor University, where he set several reception records. He was also teammates with future Houston Oilers quarterback Cody Carlson.
College Statistics
- 1980: 5 catches for 51 yards and 1 TD. 1 carry for 5 yards. 8 kick returns for 189 yards. 41 punt returns for 395 yards.
- 1981: 44 catches for 744 yards and 6 TD. 12 kick returns for 173 yards. 23 punt returns for 158 yards.
- 1982: 52 catches for 822 yards and 2 TD. 3 carries for 2 yards. 8 kick returns for 161 yards. 16 punt returns for 204 yards.
- 1983: 62 catches for 1034 yards and 8 TD. 3 kick returns for 50 yards. 21 punt returns for 129 yards.
Professional career
McNeil was an exciting athlete to watch during his career in the 1980s. He played in the United States Football League for the Houston Gamblers from 1984-1985. Subsequently he entered the National Football League, where he was drafted in 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft of USFL and CFL Players in the second round by the Cleveland Browns. In 1987, he was selected for the Pro Bowl. McNeil played for four seasons with Cleveland, and then played his final season for the Houston Oilers.
In 1986, McNeil was the only player in the NFL to return both a punt and a kickoff for a touchdown in the same season.