 McGrew was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1959, but in the following year was taken by the Buffalo Bills during their inaugural season, when he played in all 14 games and was their starting center.Although he ended up as an All-AFL 2nd team member, he was replaced the following year by rookie Al Bemiller and never played in another game in the NFL.McGrew went on to play on the semi-pro level with the Wheeling Ironmen.