Channing Crowder, ILB

Height:	6-2
Weight:	247
40 Time:	4.62
College:	Florida

Stats:
Because he declared for the draft after his sophomore year, Crowder has no senior stats. However, in his freshman and sophmore years at Florida, Crowder produced 179 tackles (109 solo) with four sacks, 13.5 stops for losses and one quarterback pressure in 17 games. Crowder also recovered three fumbles, caused two others, deflected four passes and had a 22-yard interception return.

Crowder is a huge gamble for Nick Saban with a corresponding huge potential payoff. If analyzed purely on his ability, Crowder might be the best linebacker in the draft. However, Crowder has two very big potential flaws. First of all, he had 5 different surgical procedures on his knees before he entered college, including an ACL transplant. While the Doctors have assured the Dolphins that Crowder can play, the condition of his knees must be a concern.

Second, Crowder has had some problems off the field. He has been arrested for fighting a couple of times - things that Nick Saban brushes off as being just youthful macho problems.

Positives: Another high-intensity player with a non-stop motor and a tough attitude, he started 9 games as a freshman. He is fast, quick and smart and can hold his own against larger blockers as well as run with backs and tight ends. He also has good instincts and moves very aggressively to attack the ball carrier.

Negatives: He can be a little stiff in pass coverage and sometimes gets too high when taking on blockers. He can also be overly aggressive, sometimes overrunning the plays. And he is young and will need some maturing.

Comments: Crowder will need some maturing before he can be counted on to start in the NFL, but he has all the tools - as long as he can stay healthy. And since he is just 21 years old, he has plenty of time to grow up. In contrast, Zach Thomas is 31 and, if things work out, will be retiring just about the time that Crowder is ready to step in and take over.

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