He had a strong senior season for Penn State, posting 40 tackles (7.5 for a loss), 6.5 sacks and six passes defended.
Crawford possesses all the physical attributes scouts look for when evaluating 4-3 defensive ends. He ran a 4.76-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine—a terrific number considering he's 6'5" and weighs 274 pounds.
What the Experts are Saying
NationalFootballPost.com sums up their evaluation as such:
A big, strong defensive end prospect who still has some upside to his game. But won't be able to take that next step until he learns to play with a more consistent pad level. A size prospect worth developing long term.
CBSSports.com gives us Crawford's positive and negative attributes:
Positives: Looks the part with 10-inch hands, 33 1/2-inch arms on a tall, long frame. Solid musculature and he's a hard work off the field. Gets his hand in the passing lanes and will make hustle plays. Decent production -- 14 career sacks -- and has shown steady progress.
Negatives: Lacks overpowering strength and can stick to blocks. Lacks explosive speed to bend and flatten off the corner with stiff hips and ankles. Not flexible or fluid. Uncreative pass rusher who lacks counter moves. Raw technique. Streaky and slow to react. Has some durability concerns stemming from foot issue lingering from 2010 to '11.
Projected Rookie Impact
Crawford will need to show coaches some major improvement in training camp if he hopes to make the opening-day roster.
He has the physical tools to become a regular contributor as a rotating lineman to keep starters fresh, but Crawford will need to get stronger and more technically sound be...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
