Xavier Crawford
Xavier Crawford is undersized and went to a 1-11 Central Michigan team. He is going to be a late round pick at best. However, he did get an invite to the combine, which shows that what he did on the field was noticed.
The issue with Crawford is that he has well below threshold reach. His wingspan tested in the seventh percentile, and his arm length was one of the lowest recorded at the combine.
Still, AFTER the combine, the Chicago Bears brought him in for a workout. They trust the tape and want to see how he can deal with the lack of reach.
Pro Football Focus was impressed as well, and gave him an 85 grade, ranking ninth in cover snaps per reception and seventh in tacking efficiency.
Crawford spent his time on the outside, but played off of the ball, so he did not have to press and expose his lack of reach. In space, he is fluid and can read the quarterback to make plays on the ball.
Crawford is likely to move into the slot in the NFL. He is not going to press and will instead rely on his footwork. Without many reps in the slot, the Bears likely brought him in to see him work for themselves. If the Bears like what they saw do not be surprised if he is a seventh round pick, or priority UDFA, despite the reach.