Ravens' McAlister to have season-ending surgery to fix knee

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Baltimore Ravens cornerback Chris McAlister will have season-ending surgery on his damaged right knee and will be placed on injured reserve.

McAlister has posterior cruciate ligament damage and cartilage issues. The former Pro Bowl defensive back had gone to Canada and Florida to visit specialists for a second opinion, but decided not to risk further damage to his knee.

"He expressed to me that he felt like it was in his best interests," coach John Harbaugh said Friday. "The knee is a problem because of the position he plays, the change of direction, the things he has to do without a PCL, just wore the knee down. So, he has to get it corrected."

McAlister saw limited action against Miami three weeks ago before missing the Ravens' past two games.

He leads the Ravens with three interceptions, but allowed two touchdowns to Marvin Harrison in a 31-3 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The game marked his final start of the season.

Meanwhile, Harbaugh said he's not optimistic about strong safety Dawan Landry returning this season from a spinal cord concussion.

"We're still trying to hold out hope," Harbaugh said.

The team might make a decision on his status early next week.