The football world is remembering a complicated yet inspiring figure. Randy Crowder, a former NFL defensive tackle who battled legal trouble and returned to the league, died Thursday at the age of 72. The Miami Dolphins confirmed his passing in a statement released Wednesday.
Crowder made his mark in the 1970s as a tough, relentless force on the Dolphins’ defensive line. From 1974 to 1976, he suited up in 39 games and racked up 12.5 sacks.
His on-field impact was hard to ignore. But in 1977, authorities arrested Crowder and teammate Don Reese in a drug case that led to a prison sentence. The conviction sidelined his career and forced him to rebuild both his life and reputation from the ground up.
A Comeback Few Expected, A Legacy That Lives On
After serving a year in prison, Crowder got an unlikely second chance. In 1978, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed him, and by the following year, he played in all 16 games. His presence helped Tampa Bay reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. He wrapped up his NFL career with 19 sacks and 71 appearances, starting in 35 games.
The Dolphins acknowledged his passing in a statement, saying, “We are saddened by the passing of former Dolphins player Randy Crowder, who played for the team from 1974 to 1976.”
We are saddened by the passing of former Dolphins player Randy Crowder, who played for the team from 1974-1976. pic.twitter.com/LRpWOPqgfu
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) May 21, 2025
Crowder’s story wasn’t just about personal redemption. His legacy extended through his son, Channing Crowder, who played linebacker for the Dolphins from 2005 to 2010. The Crowders remain the only father-son duo ever drafted by the Dolphins, a rare distinction in league history.
As word of Randy Crowder’s death spread, fans and fellow athletes took to social media to share their memories and condolences. One user posted, “I’m sorry to hear that. I am sending my heart to @OfficialCrowder and his family in this tough time.”
I’m sorry to hear that. I am sending my heart to @OfficialCrowder and his family in this tough time.
— Mike (@BurghFinsFan2) May 21, 2025
Another added, “Was blessed to be old enough to have watched him play. My condolences.”
Was blessed to be old enough to have watched him play. My condolences. @OfficialCrowder and family
— mike (@verobchfinfan) May 21, 2025
A third fan summed it up simply: “We lost a good one. My deepest sympathies @OfficialCrowder to you and your family.”
We lost a good one. My deepest sympathies @OfficialCrowder to you and your family. https://t.co/R4MyZd2LZv
— Greg Jansen (@GAJ13) May 21, 2025
Randy Crowder’s journey wasn’t perfect, but it was real. He faced consequences, fought his way back, and left a lasting impression on two NFL franchises and fans who never forgot how he played the game.
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