Former Ravens linebacker Jameel McClain signed with the New York Giants late Thursday night.
The terms of McClain's contract are not known at this time.
McClain, 28, was released by the Ravens on Feb. 27 along with fullback Vonta Leach. He was due a reported $3.2 million in base salary in the final year of his deal.
Once he hit the open market, there were a number of suitors. McClain also reportedly had offers from the Buffalo Bills and Minnesota Vikings.
McClain, who spent six years in Baltimore, was one of the team's greatest inspirational stories. He went from an undrafted free agent in 2008 to a starter just two years later. Then he suffered a career-threatening back injury in 2012 and fought back to once again claim a starting job last season.
He started 10 games last year, recording 52 tackles and one forced fumble. His best season was in 2011 when he had 84 tackles, one sack and an interception.
McClain didn't leave Baltimore without a heartfelt goodbye. He posted this message on his Facebook page:*
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*For the past 6 years I have been privileged to be a member of one of the great sports franchises in this country, and to make Baltimore my home...I am blessed because of the opportunity, and forever grateful that Ozzie Newsome and his staff recognized my potential and gave me a chance, that John Harbaugh and all my coaches helped me develop my skill…and that Steven Bisciotti proved to me that hard work does indeed pay off...I want to thank the Ravens organization for all of their support…and my teammates, without which none of this would be here, and my future would not be quite as bright.
To the city of Baltimore and its great fans - even though I'm moving on to the big Apple, my community work is something that will carry on here - as I will continue my commitment to change and to improve the lives of others!!…thank you for your support and encouragement…you have made me a better person.
To NY/NJ and the Giants nation…here I come!…as one of my predecessors shouted to the world, "Can't Wait"!!
#nextchapter #blessed #philly/NY/MD/back2NY*
