Quarterback McNair calls it quits

McNair spent much of last season on the sidelines

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Steve McNair has ended a 13-year NFL career in which he was named co-MVP and led the Tennessee Titans to the Super Bowl.

McNair, 35, guided the Ravens to a 13-3 record in 2006, his first season with them after 11 years in Tennessee.

But he played in only six games in 2007 thanks to a succession of injuries.

The four-time Pro Bowler began his career in 1995 with the Houston Oilers, who later became Tennessee. The Titans lost the 2000 Super Bowl to St Louis.

He was named NFL co-MVP in 2003, sharing the award with Peyton Manning, after throwing for 3,215 yards and 24 touchdowns with only seven interceptions.

McNair battled injuries during the latter part of his career with Tennessee and was dealt to the Ravens in June 2006 for a fourth-round draft pick. He signed a five-year contract.

His retirement leaves Baltimore with two quarterbacks, Kyle Boller and Troy Smith, increasing the probability that they will seek another in the NFL draft later this month.