Career Timeline of Ray-Ray McCloud: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 18, 2025

How Ray-Ray McCloud built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Ray-Ray McCloud III is a professional American football wide receiver and return specialist currently playing for the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. He previously played college football at Clemson University. His primary role is as a wide receiver and return specialist, contributing to both the offensive and special teams aspects of his team.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

July 2014: Commitment to Clemson Tigers

In July 2014, Ray-Ray McCloud committed to play football for the Clemson Tigers, choosing them over other schools like Alabama, Auburn, and Florida.

2015: Freshman Season at Clemson

In 2015, as a freshman, McCloud played in 12 games, catching 29 passes for 251 yards and one touchdown. He missed three games due to a knee injury that year.

2016: National Championship win

In 2016, McCloud played in 14 of Clemson's 15 games, and tallied 49 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns, helping Clemson win the National Championship that year.

2017: Junior Season at Clemson

In 2017, McCloud played in all 14 of Clemson's games, tallying 49 receptions for 503 yards and one touchdown. He also returned 25 punts for 303 yards and one touchdown. He was voted Honorable Mention All-ACC at the conclusion of the 2017 season.

2018: Declared for the 2018 NFL draft

Following the 2017 season, McCloud declared for the 2018 NFL draft.

2018: Drafted by Buffalo Bills

In 2018, McCloud was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round with the 187th overall pick. During Week 3, he had his first professional reception and a 13-yard punt return.

August 31, 2019: Waived by the Buffalo Bills

On August 31, 2019, McCloud was waived by the Buffalo Bills.

September 1, 2019: Claimed by Carolina Panthers

On September 1, 2019, McCloud was claimed off waivers by the Carolina Panthers.

October 15, 2019: Waived by Carolina Panthers

On October 15, 2019, McCloud was waived by the Carolina Panthers.

October 17, 2019: Signed to Bills practice squad

On October 17, 2019, McCloud was signed to the Buffalo Bills practice squad. He also served as the scout team quarterback.

January 6, 2020: Signed Reserve/Future Contract with Bills

On January 6, 2020, McCloud signed a reserve/future contract with the Buffalo Bills.

July 27, 2020: Waived by Buffalo Bills

On July 27, 2020, McCloud was waived by the Buffalo Bills.

August 21, 2020: Signed with Pittsburgh Steelers

On August 21, 2020, McCloud signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

March 11, 2021: Signed contract extension with Steelers

On March 11, 2021, McCloud signed a one-year contract extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He became their primary return specialist and was named a second-team All-Pro.