Cliff Crosby

Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, Cliff Crosby started his football career during his sophomore year of high school. Crosby admitted basketball was his favorite sport growing up, but with football season occurring in the fall, it gave him the opportunity to spend more time outside from home and learn his craft.

Being on the football field helped Crosby step into a positive environment. He saw the benefits of teamwork, being part of a unit, and most importantly, getting himself away from bad situations. Ultimately, football became a safe haven for Crosby.

After being recruited to the University of Maryland as a running back, Cliff later found himself on the defensive side of the huddle. Despite the struggles that came with learning a new position, Crosby honed in on defense during his last two years, overcoming injuries to win most improved player. His work ethic eventually presented the opportunity for him to make it to the NFL as a defensive back.

Coming into the league as an undrafted free agent, Crosby mentioned his transition to the NFL was tough. He competed against players who played defensive back their entire careers, but admitted the pressure helped him perform to the best of his ability.

After signing with the St. Louis Rams, Crosby reconnected with familiar faces from his college days and got to work. He knew he had to prove himself every day, so the advice he gives to current undrafted free agents is to have a strong work ethic because other teams are looking at you but feel like you belong with the organization that you’re currently with.

Crosby summarized his NFL experience as a “dream come true”, and “champion for life”. He realizes everyone who plays a sport dreams of competing at the highest level, so for him to achieve that was a dream fulfilled. He also revealed how winning the Super Bowl during his rookie season with the Rams was something of a storybook ending to his first year in the league.

As he contemplated his decision to step away from the NFL, Crosby admitted that he originally didn’t have anyone to turn to for answers. Thankfully, his wife at the time stepped in to help him navigate the landscape of retirement.

Crosby also took advantage of resources provided by the Professional Athletes Foundation during his career transition. He recognizes the challenges he faced during his transition makes it easier for him to approach other former players now and guide them towards the resources they need to succeed.

Crosby also believes a transitioning player should contact the NFLPA as soon as they retire. Figuring out what opportunities are available for former players can get difficult, so he advises all former players to reach out as the first step of their transition away from the league.

Outside of being a Trust Captain, Crosby finds himself involved in many endeavors today. First and foremost, he’s a full-time father. He’s also a government contractor, motivational speaker and works alongside the MGM and National Harbor to promote events.

Pressure either makes diamonds or bust pipes. To Crosby, pressure is a motivating factor and the very reason he’s able to share his triumphant story today.