McNair Has Been Mentor to Campbell

McNair eventually met Jason Campbell after becoming an established NFL quarterback. Campbell attended McNair's passing camp when he was in 10th grade, and their friendship blossomed. McNair said he "cherishes" the fact he met Campbell before he became a pro and was able to help guide him during his college career at Auburn.

"I felt like Jason was going to be a very good quarterback," McNair said, "because he had the size, the smartness and the skill to be that."

The news of Campbell's promotion took McNair back to the December day in 1995 when he made his first NFL start. Like Campbell, McNair's had to jump into the job after the season had started and amid the high expectations faced by first-round draft picks. But he overcame that pressure and led the Houston Oilers to a 23-6 win over the New York Jets.

McNair is confident Campbell eventually will find that same success.

"Over the years," McNair said, "he will develop into a great NFL quarterback."

Ravens Notes: Linebacker Ray Lewis's severely bruised back kept him out of practice Wednesday. He was not available to comment and was listed as questionable on the team's injury report. Linebacker Mike Smith (shoulder), Lewis's backup, will not play Sunday against Atlanta. . . .

The NFL has given the Ravens permission to mail playoff ticket order forms to their season ticket holders. Season ticket holders can expect to receive the form sometime next week, a team spokesman said.

Staff writer Jason La Canfora contributed to this report.