Curtis McGriff facts for kids

Curtis McGriff was an American football player. He was born on May 17, 1958. He played as a defensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL). He played for the New York Giants and the Washington Redskins.

Curtis McGriff's Early Life

Curtis McGriff grew up in Houston County, Alabama. He went to Cottonwood High School. He played football there and graduated in 1976. After high school, he played college football at the University of Alabama. He played for a famous coach named Paul "Bear" Bryant.

McGriff was a key player on the defensive line. His team won two national championships. They won in 1978 and 1979. The 1978 team won the Sugar Bowl. They beat Penn State in a very famous game. The 1979 team also won the Sugar Bowl. They defeated Arkansas to become champions again.

Playing in the NFL

Curtis McGriff started his professional career in 1980. He signed with the New York Giants. He was so good that he made the NFL's all-rookie team that year. He played as a defensive tackle. This position is important for stopping running plays.

McGriff was part of the Giants team that won Super Bowl XXI. This was a huge championship win in the 1986-1987 season. He played his last NFL season in 1987. He finished his career with the Washington Redskins.

Life After Football

After his football career, Curtis McGriff lived in Hackensack, New Jersey. He often helped with charity events. He worked with his friend and former Alabama teammate, Don McNeal. Don McNeal played for the Miami Dolphins.

On May 15, 2005, Curtis McGriff married Maurie Morris. He used to teach at a school in Lodi, New Jersey. Today, Mr. McGriff lives in Dothan, Alabama.