July 12, 2007

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - Former University of Maryland offensive lineman Jared Gaither was chosen in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Supplemental Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.

Gaither was one of two players taken Thursday and the first-ever Maryland selection in the supplemental draft.

The San Diego Chargers, picking 28th overall among the 32 teams, selected defensive back Paul Oliver of Georgia in the fourth round, while Baltimore, which selected 31st, followed by taking Gaither, thus surrendering a fifth-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.

"I feel great, and blessed for this opportunity with Baltimore," Gaither said. "I've been relaxed throughout the process and have had great support from my family.

"I can't wait to get started. This is a dream come true."

The 6-foot-9, 35-pound Gaither played in 23 of 24 games in his two seasons, with 17 starts in his final 21 contests. He started nine games at right tackle last season and eight at left tackle in 2005 when he replaced Stephon Heyer, who missed the year with a knee injury.

A native of White Plains, Md., Gaither is three years removed from high school, thus eligible for the NFL Supplemental Draft. He played one season (2004) at Hargrave Military Academy (Va.) before entering Maryland.