In need of an option at an injury-depleted middle linebacker spot, the Dallas Cowboys have acquired the rights to former first-round pick Rolando McClain in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens.
The Cowboys sent a 2015 sixth-round pick to the Ravens for McClain, who hasn't played in an NFL game since November of 2012, and will receive a seventh-round choice in next year's draft as part of the deal.
McClain signed a one-year contract with Baltimore in April of 2013, shortly after he was released by the Oakland Raiders, but abruptly retired a month later following an arrest for disorderly conduct. The one time Alabama All- American rejoined the Ravens this spring but again decided to leave the team just days after attempting his comeback.
He started 38 games in three seasons with the Raiders, who selected McClain with the eighth overall pick of the 2010 draft. However, a series of off-field issues and clashes with the coaching staff prompted Oakland to part ways with the 24-year-old following the 2012 campaign.
McClain's acquisition comes on the same day the Cowboys officially ended projected starting middle linebacker Sean Lee's season by placing him on injured reserve.
Lee tore his ACL during a contact drill on the first day of Dallas' offeseason training activites on May 27.
McClain's best season came in 2011, when he recorded five sacks and 14 passes defensed along with 99 tackles while starting 14 games for the Raiders.
[SportsNetwork.com]
