He originally verbally committed to the University of South Carolina basketball team, but later changed to football.

As a sophomore, Gaither played in twelve games and helped the Terps offensive line allow just 19 sacks all season.

On June 25, Terps coach Ralph Friedgen told reporters that Gaither's grades failed to meet his expectations, that he would not be able to play in 2007 and he would be eligible to return in 2008.

At the time, Gaither, at 6' 9", was one of the tallest players in the NFL, with Demar Dotson of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers also being 6' 9" while Dennis Roland of the Cincinnati Bengals was even taller at 6' 10".

Despite an early ankle injury during the beginning of training camp, he played surprisingly well and was a big reason for the improved offensive line of the Baltimore Ravens.

He has advocated for the passage of the FIT Kids Act, federal legislation that would require school districts to report on students' physical activity and to give children health and nutritional information.