Michael Dean Perry is a former American football defensive lineman and the younger brother of William Perry. His parents are Mrs. Inez S. Perry and Hollie Perry, Sr. of Aiken, South Carolina. He learned to play football from his older brothers. He attended South Aiken High School where he anchored the offensive and defensive line. He played football at Clemson University and set the school record of 28 sacks. He was later drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft. He played in the Pro Bowl 6 times and played for the Browns, the Denver Broncos, and the Kansas City Chiefs over his 10-year career.