#59 How the deaths of Len Bias and Jordan McNair shaped the University of Maryland’s future

In 1986, Maryland lost one of its most legendary athletes after Len Bias passed away two days following his No. 2 selection by the Boston Celtics. It was an incident the university vowed would never happen again. Yet 32 years later, offensive lineman Jordan McNair died following an offseason football workout. Tragedy struck again. While both athletes died due to different circumstances, the fallout effects from both incidents were similar. This week, we examine the long-term impact of both situations. The death of Bias resulted in two separate task forces — Dorfman’s investigation into academics and one on drug use throughout campus. The recommendations made by the task forces hampered the Terps’ ability to recruit high-level athletes, with a decreased athletic budget and focus towards promoting academics. Fan attendance dipped along with the Terps’ playing performance. McNair’s death resulted in a $3.5 million settlement with McNair’s family, as well as a separate settlement with two football players for $200k each. The Terps also lost money in ticket sales and resulted in the firings of multiple athletic staff members, including head coach DJ Durkin, strength coach Rick Court and other training staff members.