College: Oregon State
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 273
Stats:
| Year | Tackles | Tackles For Loss | Sacks |
| 2011 | 74 | 14.5 | 6 |
| 2013 | 44 | 17.5 | 9 |
| 2013 | 47 | 19 | 7.5 |
Strengths:
Motor: Crichton has a non-stop motor that never gives up on any play. He will run plays down from behind and keep fighting through a block until he gets to the quarterback. He will chase running backs upfield and leave it all on the field every play.
Pass Rush Moves: Crichton has shown a bevy of pass rush moves. He uses his hands extremely well, showing the ability to chop and rip through potential blockers. Crichton has shown the ability to bull-rush potential blockers into the pocket as well. He knows when to use each move, which makes it hard for blockers to keep him in front of them.
Quickness: Crichton shows a good ability to time the snap and get into the blocker before they can set and get ready. He has a good first step that allows him to get up field before the blockers can get ready for him. His quickness added in with his pass rush moves make him very hard to block.
Weaknesses:
Flexibility: Crichton has an impressive build, but it doesn’t lend itself to great flexibility. Crichton is a bit stiff when he is changing direction which makes him less likely to fit into every scheme. Crichton will only fit certain teams and will have to continue to get better technically.
Speed: Crichton doesn’t have great straight-line speed. He isn’t going to catch a lot of running backs from behind. He depends on anticipation and instincts to catch ball carriers. If he is a step slow on his anticipation the ball carrier will be past him.
NFL Comparison
Derrick Morgan, Tennessee Titans: Much like Crichton, Morgan doesn’t bend very well. He gets to the quarterback based on his pass rush moves and anticipation. Neither have great straight-line speed, but show good ability as an all-around defensive end against the pass and the run.
Draft Outlook
Crichton looks to be a second round pick. He has the ability to be a three down defensive end who can also slide inside to defensive tackle on pass rushing downs. He plays the run well, as well as having various pass rushing moves that he can use to get to the quarterback. He can step in right away and make an impact on a team.
Best Fit
4-3 Teams: Crichton will have to go to a team that runs a 4-3. He doesn’t have the abilities needed in a 3-4 outside linebacker. A team like the 49ers or the Seahawks could make a play for him in the late first, but more likely is a team like the Oakland Raiders in the beginning of the second. They need more pass rush and he would make sense for them going forward.