Texas Tech fans, rejoice — one of the most iconic names in Red Raiders football history is officially back in Lubbock. In a move that blends legacy with leadership, Texas Tech has welcomed home Michael Crabtree, appointing the legendary wide receiver as the program’s new Director of Player Development.
For Red Raider Nation, Crabtree’s return isn’t just nostalgic — it’s deeply symbolic. The former Texas Tech superstar redefined what it meant to be a wide receiver in college football and now brings that same energy, work ethic, and winning mentality back to where it all started.
🔥 College Dominance Like No Other
Crabtree’s resume in Lubbock is legendary. During his two seasons at Texas Tech (2007–2008), he racked up:
- 231 receptions
- 3,127 receiving yards
- 41 touchdowns
His 2007 campaign remains one of the greatest in NCAA history: 134 catches for 1,962 yards and 22 touchdowns. That season earned him the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s top receiver — an honor he would win again in 2008, becoming the first player to win it twice.
He was a two-time Unanimous All-American and finished fifth in Heisman Trophy voting in 2008.
And who could forget the defining moment of his college career? On November 1, 2008, Crabtree caught a game-winning 28-yard touchdown with one second left to upset then-No. 1 Texas. That play instantly became one of college football’s all-time great highlights and etched his name permanently into Texas Tech lore.
💼 NFL Career and Off-the-Field Impact
Crabtree was drafted 10th overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2009 NFL Draft. He went on to play 11 seasons in the NFL, suiting up for the 49ers, Raiders, Ravens, and Cardinals. Over his professional career, he posted:
- 637 receptions
- 7,499 receiving yards
- 54 touchdowns
His consistency, clutch playmaking, and toughness made him a reliable target and respected veteran across the league.
Beyond the field, Crabtree has given back in meaningful ways. He launched the Crab5 Foundation to support underprivileged youth and in 2019, he endowed a scholarship for future Texas Tech wide receivers — a testament to his enduring connection to the university.
🏟️ Full Circle Moment
Now, as Director of Player Development, Crabtree will work hands-on with student-athletes to guide their growth both on and off the field. From a Heisman finalist to a Hall of Famer to a mentor, this is a full-circle moment that inspires the next generation of Red Raiders.
Texas Tech isn’t just bringing back a football legend — it’s bringing back a culture-shifter, a program-builder, and one of its own.
Welcome home, Michael Crabtree. Raider Nation is ready. 🔴⚫