By Jeff Bugher
4/27/2024
Offensive tackle Frank Crum, nicknamed "Frank The Tank," has been signed as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos. Standing tall at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing in at 313 pounds, Frank embodies the term "gentle giant" while remaining a towering presence on the field. Hailing from Laramie, he enjoys both fan and media acclaim for his blend of humor and seriousness. With 49 starts out of 56 games during his tenure at Wyoming, Frank's transition from right to left tackle in 2023 highlights his versatility. Moreover, his lineage as a third-generation Wyoming Cowboy footballer, following his father Gary Crum and grandfather Earl Crum, adds depth to his legacy. As a true leader, Frank's impact for the Denver Broncos is bound to be significant. In an interview with PokesNews.com earlier this week, Crum said, " Once the opportunity’s presented, I gotta go take it…longevity in the league is what matters." Crum also expressed more excitement than nervousness, stating, "I'm more excited to keep refining my game and get ready to go to a rookie minicamp. “I'm more excited than nervous, that's for sure."
Family is no stranger to pro sports
Crum is the fourth person in his extended family to sign with a pro sports team. Frank's first cousin Adam Morrison (Gonzaga) was selected third overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Bobcats. Morrison went on to win 2 NBA Championship rings with the LA Lakers. The Miami Dolphins drafted Frank’s father Gary Crum (Wyoming) in the 1982 NFL draft as the 24th pick in the 11th round. Gary played one year for the Dolphins before taking a college coaching job. Frank’s grandfather Earl Crum (Wyoming) played for the Packers following his service in the military during the 1940’s. Earl's contract with the Packers was $100 per game and a job in the meat packing plant.
The Mountain West Conference only had two players drafted in the 2024 NFL Draft. Crum went undrafted, all while lower ranked offensive linemen were getting picked over him. During the 7th round, Crum was still the best available OL left on the board.
Right after the draft, @AudraSorensen (Twitter “X”) said: “Is Frank Crum the prom queen no one asked on a date? I SMELL REGRET on all the teams who could have taken him".
The last laugh
Although Frank went undrafted, his UDFA contract guarantee is more than those of players who were drafted in the 6th and 7th rounds. Frank has the last laugh. Contract information per Mike Klis of 9 NEWS (@mikeklis9news Twitter “X”)