Ray-Ray McCloud Bio
Raymond McCloud III is an American professional football wide receiver and return specialist born on October 15, 1996, in Tampa, Florida. He played college football for the Clemson Tigers and was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. McCloud has played for several NFL teams, including the Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and the Atlanta Falcons. He is known for his speed and agility, contributing as both a wide receiver and a return specialist.
Early Life and Background
McCloud attended Sickles High School in Tampa, Florida, where he played on the Gryphons football team as a running back. During his senior year, he rushed for an impressive 1,933 yards and scored 17 touchdowns. Over his high school career, he accumulated a total of 5,765 rushing yards and 58 touchdowns, showcasing his talent early on. In July 2014, he committed to play college football for the Clemson Tigers, choosing them over other prestigious programs such as Alabama, Auburn, and Florida.
Path to American Football
At Clemson, McCloud made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2015, participating in 12 games and catching 29 passes for 251 yards and one touchdown, despite missing three games due to a knee injury. His sophomore year in 2016 saw him play in 14 games, where he recorded 49 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Tigers secure the National Championship. In his junior season, McCloud played all 14 games, tallying 49 receptions for 503 yards and one touchdown, along with returning 25 punts for 303 yards and one touchdown. His performance earned him an Honorable Mention All-ACC recognition at the end of the season. Following his successful college career, he declared for the 2018 NFL Draft.
Ray-Ray McCloud Career
Early Career (2018-2019)
McCloud was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round as the 187th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He made his professional debut in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings, where he recorded his first reception and had a 13-yard punt return. However, his first stint with the Bills was short-lived, as he was waived on August 31, 2019. Shortly after, he was claimed off waivers by the Carolina Panthers but was waived again on October 15, 2019. McCloud returned to the Bills later that year, signing to their practice squad on October 17, 2019.
Breakthrough (2020-2021)
McCloud signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 21, 2020, where he became the team’s primary return specialist. He signed a one-year contract extension with the Steelers on March 11, 2021. During the 2021 season, he led the NFL in total punt-return yards, recording 39 receptions for 277 receiving yards. His performance earned him recognition from Pro Football Focus, which named him to its All-Pro roster as a second-team return specialist.
Notable Works and Milestones
McCloud’s signature achievement came in 2021 when he led the NFL in punt return yards. He has also contributed significantly to his teams with notable receptions and special teams play, showcasing his versatility as both a wide receiver and return specialist.
Ray-Ray McCloud Award Nominations
Throughout his career, McCloud has received recognition for his performance on the field, particularly for his achievements in punt return yards.
Ray-Ray McCloud Awards Won
McCloud has won notable awards, including being the NFL punt return yards leader in 2021 and a CFP national champion in 2016.
Ray-Ray McCloud Family
McCloud is the older brother of quarterback Jordan McCloud, indicating a family connection to the sport of football.
Personal Life
Information about McCloud’s personal life is limited, but he has maintained a focus on his football career while contributing to his teams in various capacities.
