Posted Mon Jun 2nd by Monty
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Tim Crowder was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 2nd round of the 2007 NFL Draft out of the University of Texas. His rookie year saw Crowder quietly tally 4 sacks, a decent total considering that many had surmised that first round pick Jarvis Moss would be more of a pass rushing threat. Crowder started all 13 games in his senior year with the Longhorns, compiling 59 tackles (39 solo), 10.5 sacks (66 yds.), 4 forced fumbles, 3 passes defensed and a fumble recovery in the end zone for a touchdown. Crowder was named a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award (nation’s top defensive end) after he finished with 20 quarterback pressures and 18 tackles-for-losses.
The Good: The defensive line played poorly as a whole, but Crowder took steps in his rookie season. His 4 sacks are a very decent total for a rookie DE in minimal time, while his ability to play on running downs makes him a versatile commodity. 22 tackles (18 solo) was a decent total as well. Crowder dominated the highlight reels in Week 7 against Pittsburgh on Sunday Night Football with his 50-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
The Bad: It’s hard to be critical of a rookie player, but Crowder struggled with an ankle injury early and wasn’t activated until week 4 of the season. His 4 sacks all came in a 3-week span (at KC, vs. TEN, at CHI); hopefully his sophomore season and beyond won’t be as hot and cold as his rookie campaign.
Status: Potential starter. Signed through 2010. I expect Crowder to compete (and win) a starting job during training camp. He can play both the run and pass and is more talented than incumbents John Engelberger and Ebenezer Ekuban. Tim Crowder was born on June 30, 1985 in Tyler, Texas.
As always, we invite you, the readers, to partake. Will Crowder excel in 2008, or do the growing pains cause you to yearn for a veteran talent?
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Published on 06/02/2008 at Mon Jun 02 16:37.
Tagged: Tim Crowder.