Nick McCloud (born July 9, 1998) is an American professional football cornerback who currently plays for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). The Rock Hill, South Carolina, native has built a reputation as a versatile and physical defensive back during his time in the NFL. McCloud previously played for the Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football at North Carolina State University and the University of Notre Dame before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021.
Nick McCloud Bio
Nick McCloud has established himself as a journeyman NFL player who has demonstrated resilience and adaptability across multiple organizations. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 191 pounds, he brings size and physicality to the cornerback position. His career path reflects the challenges faced by undrafted players striving to carve out a lasting professional career in the league.
Early Life and Background
Nick McCloud was born on July 9, 1998, in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He attended South Pointe High School in Rock Hill, where he developed his skills as a defensive back. His high school career laid the foundation for his journey to the collegiate level, setting the stage for his eventual transition to professional football.
Path to the NFL
McCloud played college football at North Carolina State University from 2016 to 2019, suiting up for the NC State Wolfpack. He then transferred to the University of Notre Dame for his final season in 2020, joining the Fighting Irish. While playing for Notre Dame in the 2021 Rose Bowl, McCloud gained national attention when Alabama running back Najee Harris hurdled over him during a play, a moment that quickly went viral on social media and highlighted his presence on the big stage. Despite four years of college football experience, McCloud went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Nick McCloud Career
Early Career (2021)
McCloud signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent on May 1, 2021, beginning his professional journey. He was waived during final roster cuts on August 31, 2021. The Cincinnati Bengals claimed him off waivers on September 1, 2021, but he was waived again on November 4, 2021. On November 8, 2021, McCloud returned to the Bills organization, signing with their practice squad. After Buffalo was eliminated in the Divisional Round of the 2021 playoffs, he signed a reserve/future contract with the Bills on January 24, 2022. He was waived on August 30, 2022.
New York Giants Breakthrough (2022–2024)
On August 31, 2022, the New York Giants claimed McCloud off waivers, providing him with his first extended opportunity in the NFL. During the 2023 season, McCloud showcased his playmaking ability in a Week 11 matchup against the Washington Commanders, recording an interception, a forced fumble, and a pass deflection in a single game. He finished the 2023 season with 28 total tackles, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception, and two pass deflections. His tenure with the Giants ended on November 5, 2024, after a disagreement with the front office regarding a proposed midseason pay cut on his one-year, $3 million contract he had signed in March.
San Francisco 49ers (2024)
McCloud joined the San Francisco 49ers on November 11, 2024, signing with their practice squad. His performance earned him a promotion to the active roster on November 30, 2024, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level.
Chicago Bears Era (2025–Present)
On March 24, 2025, McCloud signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Bears. This move marked a new chapter in his NFL career as he joined the Bears organization for the 2025 season. His journey from an undrafted free agent to a veteran player with multiple team experiences reflects his determination to succeed in the league.
Playing Style and Strengths
McCloud is known for his physical style of play and versatility in coverage. His ability to create turnovers, evidenced by his forced fumbles and interceptions, makes him a valuable asset to any defensive unit. He brings experience from multiple NFL organizations and has demonstrated the adaptability required to succeed in different defensive systems.
Notable Moments
Beyond the 2021 Rose Bowl viral moment, McCloud’s standout performance came during the 2023 Week 11 game against the Washington Commanders, where he recorded multiple positive stats in a single game. His three forced fumbles during the 2023 season highlighted his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create scoring opportunities for his team.
Nick McCloud Career Statistics
Throughout his NFL career, McCloud has accumulated meaningful statistics despite joining multiple teams as a depth player. His ability to force turnovers and make tackles in coverage has been a consistent part of his game.
NFL Statistics Highlights
Through the 2025 season, McCloud has recorded 123 total tackles, 12 pass deflections, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception, and 1.5 sacks. His most productive season came in 2023 with the Giants, where he recorded 28 tackles and created three turnovers through forced fumbles and interceptions.
College Achievements
McCloud’s college career at NC State and Notre Dame prepared him for the challenges of professional football. Playing against top competition, including an appearance in the 2021 Rose Bowl against Alabama, gave him valuable experience that translated to his NFL success.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 123 |
| Pass Deflections | 12 |
| Forced Fumbles | 3 |
| Fumble Recoveries | 3 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Sacks | 1.5 |
Nick McCloud Family
Family Background
Nick McCloud grew up in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where he attended South Pointe High School. No further details about his family background or personal relationships have been made publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season with the Chicago Bears, McCloud brings four seasons of NFL experience to his new team. Signed to a one-year contract in March 2025, he provides the Bears secondary with veteran depth and playmaking ability. His offseason transition to a new defensive scheme will be a key storyline to follow as the season progresses. McCloud’s ability to adapt quickly and contribute on defense or special teams will determine his role with the organization. His experience with multiple NFL teams gives him a unique perspective and the versatility that coaches value in rotational players. The Bears coaching staff will look to utilize his skills effectively within their defensive system as they aim to improve their secondary performance in the upcoming season.