When Nevada needed to make a critical play to separate itself during its most important win of the season, Kitan Crawford provided it.
Facing Oregon State, the Beavers had the ball near midfield early in the fourth quarter. Nevada led by just four points after trailing by 10 in the third frame.
Oregon State quarterback Gevani McCoy looked to throw on second down and, while under pressure, was forced to pass before he was ready. And Crawford recognized this.
The standout safety broke toward an OSU receiver, who ran a quick out route, and intercepted the ball. From there, he had a clear path to the end zone for a 52-yard pick-six.
When he had the opportunity, Crawford shined. And that might continue in the NFL.
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Kitan Crawford NFL Mock Draft Projection In 2025
I project Kitan Crawford will be selected in the third round of the NFL Draft.
His numbers at the NFL Combine illustrated he has the tools to become a starting-caliber safety at the next level. And I believe a team will think it’s worthwhile using a Day 2 pick on him.
What Was Kitan Crawford’s 40 Time At The NFL Combine?
Kitan Crawford ran the 40-yard dash in 4.41 seconds at the 2025 NFL Combine. That was third among 15 safeties there.
Crawford’s 20-yard shuttle time of 4.03 seconds was the fastest out of anyone at the combine. His vertical jump of 41.5 inches was second among safeties and third among all players. His three-cone drill time of 6.81 seconds was also the second-fastest in the safety group and was seventh for all players regardless of position.
Crawford’s broad jump of 10 feet, 8 inches, and his 18 bench press reps were both third among the safeties who participated.
Kitan Crawford’s Height & Weight
Kitan Crawford was measured at 5-foot-11, 202 pounds at the NFL Combine.
Kitan Crawford’s Stats & Highlights
Crawford played one season at Nevada, but he capitalized on the playing time he had there and made the All-Mountain West honorable mention list in 2024.
Crawford began his collegiate career at Texas and was there for four seasons. He played in 46 games. After a combined 12 tackles his first two years, he tallied 25 tackles in 2022 and 24 the following season. He also recorded a tackle for loss and an interception in 2023.
Then he followed head coach Jeff Choate, who was previously a co-defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach at Texas, to Nevada. Crawford instantly was more productive as he racked up 76 tackles, three for loss, as well as two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, to go with a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
Kitan Crawford’s NFL Comparison & 2025 NFL Draft Profile
I believe some elements of Kitan Crawford’s game are comparable to Kevin Byard III. Both of them can make plays on the ball and both can provide run support.
Crawford showed at Nevada he can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. While he did miss a tackle or two, he’s never afraid to be physical.
He’s also relentless. Even if he didn’t tackle a ball carrier on the first try, he was so fast he could get back off the ground and still be involved in the play.
And in coverage, he was phenomenal. In Pro Football Focus’ coverage grades among FBS safeties who played at least 200 snaps, Crawford was in the top 20. He was also in the top 30 for overall defense.
For the 2024 season, Crawford gave up 17 catches on 30 targets for just 186 yards and no touchdowns. He anticipates plays well, and is constantly looking to swat passes away or jar the ball loose from a receiver’s hands.
If NFL teams would overlook that he played for a Group of Five school, Crawford has the potential to become a solid contributor for any franchise.
