Decoldest Crawford, who has one of the most unique names in sports, is close to being eligible to play football at an HBCU.
Recruiting circles have long buzzed about Crawford, whose attention-grabbing name and on-field versatility have made him a target for major programs in recent recruiting cycles.
He was first recruited to LSU by current Grambling State coach Mickey Joseph. He then made the move to Nebraska, also a target of Joseph when he was on the Cornhuskers coaching staff.
Speaking at SWAC Media Day last week, Joseph was asked when Crawford would hit the field for the Tigers.
“We’re waiting on Decoldest Crawford to finish up his degree,” the coach said. “We’ll know more at the end of this month. But like I said, I recruited Decoldest to LSU. Also recruited him to Nebraska. He’ll be a great addition.”
Who is Decoldest Crawford?
- Attended Green Oaks High School (Shreveport, LA).
- Was a three-star recruit, ranked among the top 20 players in Louisiana and top 80 receivers nationally by recruiting services.
- Originally committed to LSU in 2019, a decision that drew viral attention due to his name and potential.
- Never played a game for LSU, reopening his recruitment after a coaching change.
- Committed to Nebraska for the 2022 season but missed his true freshman season due to an injury suffered in fall camp.
- Transferred to Louisiana Tech for the 2023 season, marking a return to his home state. Played in 11 games, primarily on special teams; caught two passes for 17 yards, both against Nebraska.
Decoldest parlayed name into NIL deals
Garnered national and online fame for partnering with a Nebraska HVAC company in a clever NIL marketing campaign, which drew millions of views and highlighted his unique name.
SOS Heating & Cooling went viral with its Decoldest Crawford NIL ad. It’s returned with Nebraska’s Nash Hutmacher.
“Could you imagine having Decoldest and then following it up with a guy whose nickname is the Polar Bear?”
Details via @Pete_Nakos96: https://t.co/m03sfNriFA pic.twitter.com/FHRnpnUXej
— On3 NIL (@On3NIL) August 17, 2023
Notable for turning his name into NIL opportunities, he signed endorsement deals, including a commercial with SOS Heating & Cooling, one of the most memorable athlete-NIL deals in the early era of NIL.
What Decoldest brings to Grambling State
The Tigers hope that Crawford can play up to the potential that his high school and name reputation have brought to a team that needs as many impact contributors as possible, coming off a 5-7 overall record and a 2-6 finish in the SWAC.
