Qadry Ismail facts for kids

Qadry Rahmadan Ismail (born November 8, 1970) is a former American football player. He was known as "the Missile" during his career. Qadry played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL).

He played college football for the Syracuse Orange. In 1991, he was named a first-team All-American. This means he was one of the best college players in the country. The Minnesota Vikings chose him in the second round of the 1993 NFL draft. He also played for the Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, and Indianapolis Colts. With the Ravens, he won Super Bowl XXXV.

Early Life and High School Sports

Qadry Rahmadan Ismail was born on November 8, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey. His parents were Ibrahim and Fat'ma Ismail. In 1985, he moved to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. He lived with his grandmother, Laura Bauknight.

Qadry went to Elmer L. Meyers Junior/Senior High School. He and his older brother, Raghib, were honored there. They received the first Martin Luther King Youth Leadership Award. This award was given by the local NAACP group. The NAACP is a civil rights organization.

High School Track and Field

Ismail was a talented athlete in high school. He played football and ran track. In 1988, he was ranked the best high school hurdler in the nation. He won the 110-meter high hurdles at a big event called the Golden West Invitational.

He also helped his track team win two state championships. Qadry won six state titles in different hurdle and relay races. He also won many district championships.

High School Football

On the football team, Ismail was a two-time All-scholastic player. He played as a wide receiver and defensive back. He was later added to the PIAA Coaches Association Hall of Fame. In 1988, he was named Athlete of the Year by local newspapers.

College Career at Syracuse

Ismail went to Syracuse University. He played for both the football team and the track team. He was the first athlete since Jim Brown (in 1957) to be an All-American in two different sports at Syracuse.

College Track and Field

For the Syracuse Orange track and field team, Ismail was an All-American. He excelled in both indoor and outdoor hurdle events. He also won championships in the 110m hurdles and 55m hurdles. He set school records in the 55m hurdles and the 4x400 relay.

College Football

On the football team, Ismail was chosen as an All-American in 1991. This was for his skills as a kick returner. He was also a first-team All-Big East selection. This was for his play as a wide receiver and kickoff returner.

College Statistics

Professional NFL Career

The Minnesota Vikings picked Qadry Ismail in the 1993 NFL draft. He was the 52nd player chosen overall. This made him the highest-drafted Syracuse player since Moose Johnston.

In 1999, a local newspaper listed him as one of the top 100 athletes.

Baltimore Ravens and Super Bowl XXXV

In 1999, Ismail played for the Baltimore Ravens. He was a key player for the team. He led the Ravens with 68 catches and 1,105 receiving yards. He also scored 6 touchdowns that year. In one game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he gained a career-high 258 yards.

His biggest moment came on January 28, 2001. The Baltimore Ravens played the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV. The Ravens won the game 34–7. Ismail caught a 47-yard pass during the game. He earned his first Super Bowl ring with this victory.

Later Career

In 2002, Ismail signed a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts. He played as a second wide receiver alongside Marvin Harrison.

NFL Career Statistics

Life After Football

After retiring from playing in the NFL, Ismail started a career in broadcasting. He worked for several sports networks like Comcast Sports Net and ESPN. He also became part of the Ravens’ broadcast team. In 2017, he became a color commentator for the Baltimore Brigade. A color commentator helps explain the game during a broadcast.

Personal Life and Family

Qadry Ismail comes from a family of athletes. His brother is Raghib "The Rocket" Ismail. Another brother is Sulaiman "The Bomb" Ismail.

Qadry has three children with his former wife, Holly Oslander Ismail: Qalea, Qadry, and Qadir. He works as a sports performance coach. He helps young athletes improve their fitness and speed.

Ismail was also the head coach for the boys' track and field team at Patterson Mill High School. His daughter, Qalea, plays basketball at Princeton University. His son, Qadry, plays wide receiver at Mercyhurst University. His son, Qadir, played quarterback at Villanova and Samford. Qadir now plays tight end for the Baltimore Ravens.