Name: Anthony (AJ) Crider
School: University of Toledo (‘17-‘21) Ohio Dominican ‘22 
Position: LB
Height: 6-2
Weight: 240

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

My initial goal was the same as anyone’s in that position: help lead my team to a national championship. Not only for the accomplishment, but I felt as though I owed it to the defensive coordinator at ODU. He was the linebacker graduate assistant at Toledo for my first three years and was always willing to help me out there, as I came into college lacking the knowledge and coaching necessary to be successful playing college ball. Once I found out he was the DC at another school, and he learned that I was in the portal, we linked up immediately and he offered me a full ride based solely off the type of person and athlete he knew me to be from our time together at UT. Unfortunately, I broke a bone in my hand/wrist during our first game and that hindered my performance being that I’ve never played with a cast let alone broken a bone. Once that happened, I made it a goal to just play the best I could and continue to help my team in any way I can. I feel as though I did that. 

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

My coaches and my teammates from either team would say that I am selfless and hard working. If I’m able to help out then I will. Whatever is needed of me, I will do it as long as it is the best interest of the team. When it comes to the workouts and training, I am always one of the hardest working. I am a competitor and I refuse to be beaten.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

When I watch film, I like to look at formational tendencies as well as player tendencies. I look for the most common plays and out of what formations. Who their go to players and big play makers were. Also, what tells do the offensive line and running backs give off that reveal what play they’re running.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

 I feel as though my size compared to my burst and explosiveness is what separates me. I’m quick downhill once I get my read and I have the power to get off blocks and run through tackles. My speed and lateral quickness allow me to be elusive accompanied by my understanding of the use of leverage against players larger than me. 

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

My main focus has been getting my hand back to 100%. I got my cast removed a couple weeks ago and since then I’ve been doing movements to rebuild the strength and stability in my wrist. I’ve been keeping my body in shape by continuing to train speed and agility, condition, increase my football IQ as well as feeding my body with the right things.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

I feel as though I can bring a level of leadership to the team that is needed being an inside linebacker, the ‘general of the defense’. I can be a vocal leader as well as one by example. Off the field, I love doing work out in the community. Going and connecting with kids and helping clean up the environment. 

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

Professional football has been a dream of mine since I was in middle school. I’ve grown to love the game and develop a burning passion, even through all the adversity I’ve had to experience along my journey. All I’ve ever needed was an opportunity and that still stands to this day. I will not be out worked and I will not allow myself to fall off. I am willing to do whatever it takes to achieve my dreams, no matter where that leads me. Anyone who decides to invest in me will get my 100% best and will not regret it, that is a promise.