Duke's Jamison Crowder Could be Big-Time Player in NFL

When it comes to Duke Blue Devils making it to the NFL there aren’t many recent success stories. Sure, a few have made some NFL teams recently but none have become legitimate stars in the NFL. That could change this April when Jamison Crowder figures to be selected by an NFL team looking for a potential impact slot receiver.

Crowder is coming off of three consecutive seasons of at least 1,000 yards receiving (1074 in 2012, 1360 in 2013, and 1044 in 2014) and three straight seasons of at least 75 catches, including 108 catches in 2014. His 283 receptions are an ACC record and he ranks third all-time in receiving yards. He is also an adept punt returner with four touchdowns over the last two seasons and an ACC-leading 12.7 yards per punt return.

Crowder is a fantastic route runner who is a home run threat after the catch, exactly what NFL teams look for in their slot receivers. His size might be the only detractor to his game. He stands at just five-feet, nine-inches tall and weighs in at around 175 pounds. However, as he is showing in Senior Bowl practices he can certainly elevate his game beyond physical limitations. The NFL does have some notable receivers that come in under six feet tall like T.Y. Hilton, Steve Smith, Antonio Brown and John Brown. Crowder could join that group in 2015.

While those may be lofty expectations, no player in recent Duke history has the ability to become a star on the next level the way Crowder does. The Senior Bowl should only help to showcase Crowder’s talents and could push Crowder into Day 2 of the NFL Draft. Don’t be surprised if Crowder goes on to a very successful career.