Marquan McCall Bio
Marquan McCall is an American professional football defensive tackle who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Born on March 26, 1999, in Detroit, Michigan, McCall played college football at the University of Kentucky from 2018 to 2021. Known for his imposing physical stature at 6 feet 3 inches and 345 pounds, he has built a professional career spanning multiple NFL franchises and most recently the United Football League. His journey from high school standout in suburban Detroit to professional athlete represents a path marked by persistence and adaptability across different organizations.
Early Life and Background
McCall was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, where his football journey began. He attended Oak Park High School in Michigan, developing into a notable defensive line prospect during his high school years. His performance at Oak Park earned him recognition as a promising college prospect, setting the stage for his transition to major collegiate competition. Growing up in the Detroit area provided McCall with access to Michigan’s competitive high school football scene, which helped prepare him for the next level of his career.
Path to the NFL
Following his standout high school career at Oak Park, McCall accepted an opportunity to play at the University of Kentucky, joining their football program in 2018. Over four seasons with the Wildcats from 2018 to 2021, he developed his skills as a defensive tackle in the Southeastern Conference, one of college football’s most competitive conferences. His collegiate career provided valuable experience against high-level competition, refining the techniques and physical attributes that would serve him in professional football.
Marquan McCall Career
NFL Journey (2022-Present)
McCall entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2022 following the conclusion of the NFL draft. He signed with the Carolina Panthers on April 30, 2022, shortly after the draft concluded. Impressively, he made the Panthers’ final 53-man roster after training camp, securing his spot on an NFL roster as a rookie. His tenure with the Panthers continued through most of the 2022 season and into 2023, where he contributed at the defensive tackle position.
On August 21, 2023, the Panthers waived McCall, marking the beginning of a transitional period in his career. The following day, he was claimed off waivers by the New England Patriots, though this move was short-lived as he was waived the next day due to a failed physical. In October 2023, McCall worked out for the Minnesota Vikings, but no contractual agreement resulted from that opportunity. His journeyman path continued as he moved through multiple organizations that season.
Las Vegas Raiders Era (2023-2024)
McCall’s career took a significant turn on December 19, 2023, when he signed with the practice squad of the Las Vegas Raiders. His performance and potential earned him a reserve/future contract with the Raiders on January 8, 2024, solidifying his place on the organization. This opportunity represented a stable footing in his NFL career as he worked toward a more permanent role on the defensive line. The Raiders utilized McCall’s size and experience as depth along their defensive front.
During the 2024 season, McCall was waived by the Raiders on August 27 before being re-signed to the practice squad. He remained with the organization through much of the season before being released on December 10, 2024. Throughout his time with the Raiders across two seasons, McCall provided valuable depth and contributed to the defensive tackle rotation when called upon.
San Antonio Brahmas and UFL (2025)
Following his release from the Raiders, McCall transitioned to the United Football League, signing with the San Antonio Brahmas on March 11, 2025. The Brahmas represent one of the eight teams in the UFL, a spring professional football league featuring players seeking opportunities to develop and showcase their talents. McCall signed with the Brahmas aiming to contribute as a defensive tackle and potentially earn another opportunity at the NFL level. He was released by the Brahmas on March 20, 2025, as the team made roster adjustments.
Playing Style and Strengths
At 6 feet 3 inches and 345 pounds, McCall brings substantial size to the defensive tackle position. His listed height of 1.91 meters and weight of 156 kilograms reflect his role as a run-stuffing interior defender. McCall’s physical profile enables him to occupy blockers and create pressure up the middle of the defensive line. His experience across multiple NFL organizations and different defensive schemes has provided him with versatility and adaptability as a professional player.
Notable Career Moments
Making the Carolina Panthers’ 53-man roster as an undrafted free agent in 2022 stands as a significant achievement in McCall’s career, demonstrating that his talent merited an NFL opportunity despite going unselected in the draft. His subsequent journey through multiple organizations in 2023 showcased both the competitive nature of the NFL and his determination to maintain his professional career. The December 2023 signing by the Las Vegas Raiders represented a turning point, leading to his most sustained NFL tenure and a futures contract for 2024.
Marquan McCall Career Statistics
McCall has accumulated professional playing time across multiple NFL franchises since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2022. His career has included stints with five NFL teams along with his recent engagement in the UFL.
NFL Career Stats
Across his NFL career through the 2023 season, McCall has recorded 15 total tackles. His rookie season with the Panthers provided his initial NFL game experience, while subsequent seasons with the Patriots, Bears, Lions, and Raiders offered additional playing opportunities. These statistics reflect his contributions primarily as a rotational defensive tackle and special teams contributor throughout his NFL journey.
Career Timeline
McCall’s professional career has been marked by significant movement between organizations, beginning with his signing with the Panthers in April 2022. His path has taken him through six NFL franchises including the Panthers, Patriots, Bears, Lions, Raiders, and most recently the UFL’s San Antonio Brahmas in 2025. This journeyman career reflects the competitive nature of maintaining an NFL roster spot as an undrafted player, while also demonstrating his continued pursuit of professional football opportunities.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represents a new chapter in McCall’s professional career following his departure from the NFL. His signing with the San Antonio Brahmas of the United Football League in March 2025 indicated his commitment to continuing his football career at a high level. The UFL provides a platform for players to develop their skills and attract attention from NFL scouts during the spring football season. McCall’s brief tenure with the Brahmas ended after approximately nine days, but the move demonstrated his willingness to explore all avenues for continuing his football career. Moving forward, McCall remains a professional football player actively seeking opportunities to contribute at the highest levels of the sport.