It seems as though veteran journeyman WR Michael Crabtree is still looking for an NFL home since being released from the Baltimore Ravens in February. Briefly, Arizona appeared to be the most likely destination after he completed a workout recently with the team. It was not to be as the team decided to go a different direction. The Cardinals would have been a good fit for Crabtree as he would be returning to an offense that he flourished under in college at Texas Tech.
Last season, Michael Crabtree had 54 catches for 607 yards and 3 touchdowns while with the Ravens. He was set to make $7 million in 2019, but Baltimore felt like they needed to go younger/more explosive when it comes to their receiver corps. Throughout his career, he has produced solid numbers. His most notable were with the 49ers in 2012 (1,105 yards and 9 TDs) and 2016 with the Oakland Raiders (1,003 yards and 8 TDs). He’s averaged 70 receptions per year with 11.8 yards per catch. Also, throw in he’s accumulated at least 600 yards for 5 straight seasons. Couple that with working in an air-raid offense that he is familiar with, it seems like a sure bet that the Cardinals would have signed him. However, it wasn’t the case. When presumably breaking in rookie QB Kyler Murray, you would think having 2 veterans (Fitzgerald and Crabtree) on the field would be the most beneficial and comfortable scenario. Again, they declined. What is their motivation? Are they, like the Ravens more in favor of youth and explosivity?
Based on the numbers above, Michael Crabtree still provides great value to a team. Is he still a WR1? He’s possibly past that, but having a veteran presence can make a difference in an offense. He may not put up glaring stats, but having that benefit of a mentor/teacher for the younger crew coming in can be crucial. However, Crabtree is 32 years old. In skill position years, he’s approaching “ancient” status. I still think he has productive years left in him. Someone will take a chance soon. The question is who.