Michael Pierce is in his eighth season in the NFL. Seven have been with the Baltimore Ravens.
In his 99th career game, the 6-0, 355-pound defensive tackle made his first NFL interception.
The Baltimore Ravens were up 35-10 on the Cleveland Browns on Saturday when Bailey Zappe dropped to pass late in the fourth quarter.
Zappe’s throw went right into the hands of Pierce.
The defensive lineman started to return it but thought better of it and dropped to his knees despite having plenty of open field in front of him.
The Ravens erupted in celebration for their teammate who played college ball at Samford.
BIG BIG MAN INT! Michael Pierce drops and coverage at 355 pounds and picks it off!
📺: #CLEvsBAL on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/sjMZjhmPuu— NFL (@NFL) January 5, 2025
Former Ravens star Ray Lewis weighed in on Pierce’s decision.
My boy saw how far he had to run and took a knee 🤣🤣 #ILoveIt #RavensFlock
— Ray Lewis (@raylewis) January 5, 2025