Frank Crum Denver Broncos offensive tackle Frank Crum emerged into the national spotlight after a decisive block of an extra point against Kansas City on November 16. This pivotal play contributed directly to a dramatic comeback victory, clinching Denver’s first AFC West title since 2015. Just two months later, Crum captured headlines again by scoring his first career touchdown in a Divisional Round playoff win over the Buffalo Bills, solidifying Denver’s place in the AFC Championship.
Despite the public praise for these highlight moments, Crum values his contributions beyond the visible statistics, focusing more on the fundamental work that supports his team’s success.
Prioritizing Team Effort Over Personal Highlights
Crum’s mindset traces back to his high school days playing at Laramie’s Deti Stadium and continued through his six-year tenure at the University of Wyoming. He emphasizes ongoing improvement as an offensive lineman rather than chasing individual accolades.
I know there’s been a lot of (news) about my individual (extra-point) block or my individual touchdown, but my mentality is not in that realm of football. It’s still to get better at being an offensive lineman every day that I can,
Crum said.
… I know the (Broncos) organization believes in me. I’m going to keep the mentality of doing what I can to help this team win.
This grounded outlook helped him remain focused amid soaring attention during his early career in Denver.
Development Over Two Seasons With Denver Broncos
After spending his rookie season appearing in six games, Crum played an active role during his second campaign, participating in the Broncos’ last 13 games and contributing significantly on special teams. He was reported as an eligible receiver 49 times in the second year, showing versatility uncommon for his position.
You find a way to get on the field,
Crum explained.
You try to do it all and get on special teams, and that’s all I’m trying to do is make an impact to help this team win, in whatever capacity. I am going to give it my all, whether it’s on field-goal block, which is new, or catching touchdowns, which is also new.
The Story Behind Crum’s First Career Touchdown
The touchdown Crum scored came about through a unique sequence involving then-Broncos pass-game coordinator John Morton. After Morton’s one-year stint as Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2025, he rejoined the Broncos as an analyst for their playoff run. Morton had seen the Lions score with an eligible lineman during his time in Detroit and convinced Broncos head coach Sean Payton to replicate the trick play in the playoffs.
Crum was on the receiving end of that play, marking a milestone in his career.
That was my first time scoring a touchdown ever,
Crum recalled. “People say, ‘Act like you’ve been there before.’ Well, I had never been there before, so I kind of went with the emotions, and, as you could see, it was a team celebration.
It was a really cool moment as an offensive lineman, especially to be celebrating with those guys in a playoff game at Mile High.
From Wyoming Roots to NFL Opportunity
Frank Crum’s journey began in Laramie, Wyoming, where he played high school football before committing to the University of Wyoming. As an All-Mountain West Conference selection, Crum started 49 times over six years. However, he arrived at college far from a finished product, bench pressing just 185 pounds as a freshman, according to former Wyoming coach Craig Bohl.
Coach Bohl saw a long-term vision with me,
Crum said. “I wasn’t a ‘full-package guy’ coming into college, so the development at Wyoming (was critical). I also learned how to grow and get better on a daily basis, which was instilled in coach Bohl’s program.
You try to take an opportunity every time it comes your way, because you never know when another one’s coming, and shoot, if you don’t take an opportunity, someone else will.
Despite going undrafted, Crum’s decision proved beneficial. Signing as a free agent allowed him to receive more guaranteed money and stay close to home, continuing to develop under Denver’s supportive system.
Integration into Denver’s Offensive Line Unit
Crum found immediate camaraderie within the Broncos’ offensive line, joining a unit regarded as one of the strongest in the NFL. Notably, teammates like guard Quinn Meinerz and tackle Garett Bolles earned spots on the Pro Football Writers of America’s All-NFL roster.
It was a very welcoming room when I first got here,
Crum reflected. “I was the undrafted guy, and I didn’t get treated any differently. When you have guys collectively wanting success for others and you have guys who have played in this league for nine years, five years, six years and that are solid vets, they know a lot about this game, too.
The mentality of the room is to help everyone grow, and I’m very fortunate to be in a room that’s structured like that.
Recognition and Future Potential Within the Organization
Head coach Sean Payton has often praised Crum, revealing in August that three teams had expressed trade interest in the 6-foot-7 tackle from Wyoming. Payton emphasized the Broncos’ belief in Crum’s high ceiling and ongoing potential.
We have a clear and a really good vision for what we think he can become,
Payton stated.
That ceiling is high. You can tell there are other teams doing their homework the same way.
Staying Connected to Wyoming and Humble Roots
Crum remains closely tied to his home state; in February, he received a standing ovation when he returned for the University of Wyoming men’s basketball game versus Fresno State. Wearing a notably warm tan trench coat, he expressed deep pride in his background and his career journey.
I’m proud to be from Wyoming,
Crum said.
I’m still very fortunate enough to do what I do for a living. So, I look at it as a blessing and take every day with a grain of salt. I love the state of Wyoming and I love the university, so it’s great to get back and support.
Reflection on the Journey from High School to the NFL
One defining moment in Crum’s early years was sneaking into Josh Allen’s pro day at the University of Wyoming while still a high school senior in 2018. Eight years later, the paths of Crum and Allen crossed on opposite sidelines during a playoff game at Empower Field at Mile High.
These moments highlight Crum’s perseverance and the significant strides he has made from his start in Laramie to his current NFL career.
To be two years into the NFL, still feeling good and having God bless me with a body that’s still capable of playing football, I’m thankful for that,
Crum reflected. “This was the goal we had set in mind. It’s far from being accomplished in my mind with what I want to do.
I don’t feel like I’m at the pinnacle of my NFL journey, but I also know that you never know when your last snap is. I love what I do, and I love being from the state of Wyoming, too.
Looking Ahead for Frank Crum and the Broncos
As Frank Crum solidifies his role with the Denver Broncos, his determination and adaptability remain clear. With strong backing from the coaching staff and veteran teammates alike, he is poised to continue growing as a key contributor on the offensive line and special teams. Denver’s investment in Crum reflects a vision for long-term success, making him a player to watch in the coming seasons.
His journey—from undrafted free agent to an emerging star—embodies resilience and dedication, and his connection to Wyoming continues to anchor his passion and work ethic as he pursues further achievements on the NFL stage.
