Former Georgia Bulldog and New York Giant Tae Crowder shines in UFL, recording a historic performance with multiple sacks and key tackles.

By all accounts, Tae Crowder’s football journey has been a winding road filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. Once known as “Mr. Irrelevant” in the 2020 NFL Draft—a moniker given to the final player selected—Crowder defied the odds and carved out a legitimate role with the New York Giants. Now, he’s turning heads once again, this time in the United Football League (UFL), where he recently delivered a historic performance that could change the course of his professional career.

In a game that will be etched in the league’s record books, Crowder recorded multiple sacks, a slew of key tackles, and was a disruptive force from whistle to whistle. His dominance not only secured a critical win for his team but also reaffirmed what many scouts and coaches have long suspected: Tae Crowder still has plenty of football left in him—and he’s playing like a man on a mission.

From Humble Beginnings

Tae Crowder’s football story began in Pine Mountain, Georgia, a small town with a population just over 1,000. At Harris County High School, Crowder showcased his athleticism primarily as a running back, earning enough attention to draw interest from major college programs. Georgia took a chance on him, but not in the role he initially imagined. Crowder made the unusual switch from offense to defense, transitioning from running back to inside linebacker during his time in Athens.

That position switch turned out to be a career-defining move. While he never reached superstar status at Georgia, Crowder developed into a reliable tackler and intelligent field general for the Bulldogs’ defense. He displayed solid instincts, leadership, and a willingness to do the dirty work—traits that endeared him to teammates and coaches alike.

The Last Pick, But Not Forgotten

When the New York Giants selected Crowder with the 255th and final pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, his name was announced with the customary chuckles that accompany the “Mr. Irrelevant” tag. But Crowder never treated it as a joke. He used it as fuel.

“Being the last pick doesn’t define who you are,” Crowder said in an interview during his rookie season. “It just means you have to work that much harder to prove you belong.”

And prove it he did. Crowder made the Giants’ roster out of training camp and gradually worked his way into the starting lineup. In his rookie season, he tallied 57 total tackles, a sack, and even scored a game-winning fumble return touchdown against the Washington Football Team—an early statement that he was anything but irrelevant.

Transition and Resilience

Despite his early success, Crowder’s role with the Giants began to fluctuate in subsequent seasons. Coaching changes, scheme shifts, and roster shuffling meant fewer consistent opportunities. By the end of the 2022 season, the Giants waived him, ending a roller-coaster tenure in New York.

Many players in Crowder’s position might have faded into the background, content with a short stint in the NFL and ready to hang up their cleats. But not Tae. He sought another opportunity, and the newly formed United Football League provided just that.

The UFL: A New Stage, Same Grind

For players like Crowder, the UFL represents more than just a paycheck—it’s a proving ground. Designed to give former NFL players, college stars, and hungry underdogs a platform, the league has quickly become a place for redemption and resurrection.

From the moment he signed with his UFL team, Crowder approached the opportunity with laser focus. Coaches and teammates quickly noticed his work ethic and intensity, both in practice and in games.

“He came in like a pro from day one,” said his UFL head coach. “You can tell he’s played at the highest level. But what impresses me most is his attitude. He’s not here to coast—he’s here to dominate.”

And dominate he did.

A Historic Night

In a recent primetime UFL matchup, Crowder delivered what can only be described as a masterclass in linebacker play. He registered three sacks, two tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and a pass deflection, all while anchoring the defense with relentless energy.

His ability to read plays pre-snap was on full display. On multiple occasions, Crowder anticipated the offense’s motion and blitzed with perfect timing, breaking through protection to bring down the quarterback. His closing speed, often questioned during his draft evaluation, looked elite. And his tackling technique—low, precise, and powerful—prevented any meaningful yards after contact.

Perhaps the most crucial moment came late in the fourth quarter. With the game hanging in the balance and the opposing offense driving, Crowder shot through a gap on third-and-short and dropped the ball carrier behind the line, effectively sealing the win.

Fans erupted, teammates swarmed him, and social media lit up. For one night, Tae Crowder was the face of UFL football.

A Leader On and Off the Field

While his stat line stole headlines, those closest to the team say Crowder’s influence goes beyond numbers.

“He’s become a vocal leader in the locker room,” one teammate shared. “He talks to the younger guys, breaks down film with us, and keeps everyone focused.”

That leadership comes naturally to Crowder. He credits his time at Georgia and the NFL for instilling a professional mindset. “You learn quickly that talent gets you there, but discipline and preparation keep you there,” he said in a postgame interview.

Eyeing a Return to the NFL

With his recent surge in performance, speculation is mounting about Crowder possibly returning to the NFL. Scouts from multiple teams have reportedly attended games, and his name is making rounds in front office circles looking for linebacker depth.

Given the injuries and depth issues that often plague NFL teams during the regular season, it’s not out of the question that Crowder could receive a call-up before the year’s end. If he does, he’ll be better prepared than ever.

He’s bigger, stronger, and, more importantly, more mentally prepared. “I know who I am as a player now,” Crowder said. “This journey has taught me resilience, and I’m grateful for every step—even the hard ones.”

Changing the Narrative

What makes Crowder’s story so compelling isn’t just his recent success, but the journey itself. He’s challenged stereotypes about late-round picks, proven that special teams players can evolve into defensive anchors, and shown that the path to success in football is rarely linear.

He’s become a poster child for the UFL’s potential to revive careers and a reminder that hard work and belief often matter more than draft status or early accolades.

As the UFL season pushes toward its conclusion, Crowder’s name remains among the top defensive players in the league. Whether he ends up hoisting a UFL championship trophy or signing another NFL contract, one thing is clear: Tae Crowder has reclaimed control of his football destiny.

Final Thoughts

Tae Crowder’s recent performance wasn’t just a fluke—it was the product of years of persistence, adaptability, and a deep love for the game. From Pine Mountain to the NFL, from Mr. Irrelevant to UFL star, his story resonates with every player who’s ever been overlooked or doubted.

The football world may not have seen the last of Tae Crowder. In fact, it may just be witnessing his second act—and if his recent play is any indication, it promises to be even more compelling than the first.