Meet Frank Crum: The Undrafted Gem of the Broncos’ Offseason
As the Denver Broncos continue to refine their 90-man roster, today’s spotlight shines on rookie offensive tackle Frank Crum, who’s donned the number 73 jersey. With the roster battles heating up, Crum’s journey is one that stands out, promising an intriguing story of perseverance and opportunity.
Before the Broncos: A Storied Collegiate Career
Frank Crum, standing tall at 6-foot-7 and weighing in at 315 pounds, carved out a significant presence at the University of Wyoming. His college career spanned six years, thanks in part to a redshirt freshman season and an additional year of eligibility granted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure at Wyoming was nothing short of remarkable.
Crum's collegiate career was a mix of steady growth and standout performances. He began to make waves in 2019 and 2020, starting 11 games. By 2021, he had become a fixture on the offensive line, starting all 13 games that season. His versatility was evident as he seamlessly transitioned between positions. He was initially positioned as a right tackle for the 2022 season, showcasing his skills in 12 games. By the time 2023 rolled around, Crum was anchoring the left tackle spot, a move that highlighted his adaptability and growth. His efforts didn't go unnoticed, and he earned first-team All-Mountain West Conference honors following his final season.
Broncos Debut: An Unexpected Path to the NFL
Heading into the 2024 NFL Draft, Frank Crum was projected by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein to be a sixth-round pick. However, the draft unfolded differently, and Crum went undrafted. Despite this setback, his potential did not go unnoticed. As one of the top undrafted free agents (UDFAs) available, Crum attracted the attention of the Denver Broncos, who signed him in May.
The road to the NFL is rarely a straight path, and Crum’s journey is a testament to this. Undrafted yet determined, he joined the Broncos with a mission: to secure a spot on the team. The upcoming summer will be crucial for Crum as he competes for a backup offensive tackle position.
Crum’s Quest for the 53-Man Roster
So, what are Frank Crum’s chances of making the 53-man roster? They’re pretty promising. Crum is poised to compete for a backup swing tackle role, a position that’s up for grabs. Last season, the Broncos carried four backup offensive linemen, including tackle Cam Fleming and swing guard/tackle Quinn Bailey. With Fleming currently an unsigned free agent, there’s an opening that Crum could potentially fill.
Here’s why Crum’s chances are looking good:
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Versatility: Crum’s ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line is a significant asset. His experience as both a right and left tackle adds value and flexibility to the roster.
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Strong Collegiate Background: His impressive performance at Wyoming, including earning first-team All-Mountain West Conference honors, demonstrates his skill and readiness for the NFL.
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Opportunity: With Cam Fleming’s future with the team uncertain, Crum has a real shot to step into a critical role. If he performs well during the preseason, he could very well secure a spot as a backup tackle.
What to Watch for This Summer
As training camp gets underway, keep an eye on Frank Crum. His story of overcoming the odds and fighting for his place on the team is inspiring. Whether he’s making key blocks during practice or showcasing his versatility, Crum’s journey is one of resilience and determination.
In summary, Frank Crum’s transition from an undrafted free agent to a potential NFL player is a story of grit and opportunity. His solid collegiate background and versatility make him a candidate to watch this summer. The Broncos’ offensive line could see a new face as Crum battles for a spot on the 53-man roster, and it’s a storyline that’s sure to keep fans and analysts intrigued.
Stay tuned as Crum’s journey unfolds and see if this undrafted gem makes his mark in the NFL.
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