Steve McNair’s football journey is one that has been well-documented over the years. From his days as a standout quarterback at HBCU Alcorn State to being a Heisman Trophy finalist and eventually the No. 3 pick in the 1995 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers, McNair’s rise to stardom was nothing short of remarkable.
During his 13 seasons in the NFL with the Oilers/Titans and Baltimore Ravens, McNair established himself as one of the toughest quarterbacks to ever play the game. He led the Titans to Super Bowl XXXIV and was named the 2003 NFL co-MVP alongside Peyton Manning. His physical style of play endeared him to fans and solidified his place as a fan favorite.
In 2019, the Titans retired his No. 9 jersey in honor of his contributions to the franchise. McNair was also posthumously inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2012 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2020.
However, despite his on-field success, questions surrounding McNair’s tragic death in 2009 have continued to linger. The new Netflix documentary, “Untold: The Murder of Air McNair,” attempts to shed light on the circumstances surrounding his murder in Nashville on July 4, 2009.
The official narrative from authorities states that McNair was shot and killed by his mistress, 20-year-old Sahel “Jenni” Kazemi, who then took her own life. Allegedly, financial concerns and McNair’s extramarital affairs played a role in the tragic events that unfolded that day.
While the documentary touches on various theories surrounding McNair’s death, including those presented by former Nashville police officer and private investigator Vincent Hill, it fails to offer any groundbreaking revelations. The film also explores the involvement of Adrian Gilliam, a convicted felon who sold Kazemi the gun used in the crime.
One of the more poignant moments in the documentary is when McNair’s friend and former teammate, Robert Gaddy, discusses the weight of living under the cloud of suspicion following McNair’s death. Gaddy expresses regret over a business dispute with McNair and his inability to help his friend in his time of need.
Throughout the film, there is a notable absence of input from McNair’s widow, Mechelle, who has spoken candidly in the past about her husband’s relationships. The documentary also delves into Kazemi’s discovery of another woman in McNair’s life, shedding light on the complexities of his personal relationships.
While “Untold: The Murder of Air McNair” offers a glimpse into the events leading up to McNair’s untimely death, it falls short in exploring his life beyond football. McNair’s legacy extends far beyond the gridiron, and there is a missed opportunity to delve into his post-football mindset and the lessons that can be learned from his life.
In the end, perhaps it is best to let McNair’s football legacy speak for itself, allowing his achievements on the field to define his lasting impact on the game. Despite the unanswered questions surrounding his death, Steve McNair will always be remembered as a beloved figure in the world of football.
(Top photo: Doug Pensinger / Getty Images)
