Charles McRae

We are thrilled to welcome Charles Edward McRae, former NFL offensive tackle and first-round draft pick, to Storytellers! Charles’s journey is a powerful story of grit, determination, and perseverance — from his roots in a small Tennessee town to the bright lights of the NFL.

Early Life & High School
Born at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Michigan, Charles moved to Clinton, Tennessee, at the age of seven. He attended Clinton Senior High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball, laying the foundation for his remarkable athletic career.

College Career
Charles went on to play for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, initially as a defensive lineman before making a successful transition to offensive tackle. His standout performance earned him multiple All-SEC honors, including a First-Team selection in 1990, along with academic recognition for his excellence off the field.

NFL Highlights

• 7th overall pick in the 1991 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, becoming the first offensive player selected that year.
• Played 84 games in the NFL, starting 39, while contributing at both right tackle and left guard.
• Finished his career with the Oakland Raiders in 1996.

Legacy Beyond Football
After retiring from the NFL, Charles continued to inspire, earning inductions into the Clinton High School Wall of Fame, the Anderson County Hall of Fame, and the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame.

Join us as Charles shares stories from his days on the field, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and his vision for life beyond football. This episode of Storytellers is a must-listen for sports fans and anyone passionate about perseverance, leadership, and personal growth.