The 23-year-old from Emu Plains in Sydney’s west was the first punter taken in the draft – going in the sixth round with pick No 216 – after being widely considered the best on offer following his five seasons with the University of Florida.
He averaged 45.8 yards for the Gators in 2024, with 25 punts downed inside the 20-yard line. In the 2023 season, Crawshaw set the single-season Gators record for punt average at 48.9 yards.
Crawshaw is set to compete with veteran punter Matt Haack for the Broncos’ starting job. Haack signed a one-year, $US1.255 million contract with the club in March.
Crawshaw, who grew up playing a variety of sports, including rugby, stated he is looking forward to competing for the starting role.
Although Crawshaw will officially compete with Haack for the Broncos’ punter job, the NFL usually favors specialists like punters or kickers when drafted.
He is expected to join fellow Australian punters Tory Taylor (Chicago), Mitch Wishnowsky (San Francisco), Michael Dickson (Seattle), and Cameron Johnston (Pittsburgh) in the NFL.
A pre-draft scouting report highlights Crawshaw’s potential as an immediate NFL starter with the ability to become a versatile field-position weapon.
Crawshaw’s skill set particularly suits teams playing in outdoor stadiums, where wind and weather management are crucial. His ability to execute multiple punt styles and directional control adds value to any team.
The report also praises Crawshaw for proving himself in high-pressure SEC environments throughout his college career.
Crawshaw’s draft selection comes after New Broncos special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi, who comes from the New Orleans Saints, showed interest in him during Florida’s Pro Day last month.
