
TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS BRING BACK MICHAEL CRABTREE AS OFFENSIVE ANALYST – LEGENDARY WIDE RECEIVER SIGNS ANNUAL DEAL WORTH…..SEE MORE….
In a move that has electrified the fanbase and reignited memories of one of the greatest eras in Texas Tech football, the Red Raiders have officially welcomed back Michael Crabtree as an Offensive Analyst. The former All-American wide receiver and Red Raiders legend has signed a $1.5 million annual contract, marking his triumphant return to Lubbock.
The announcement was made Thursday morning in a special press conference held at the Texas Tech Football Training Facility, where Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt and Head Coach Joey McGuire introduced Crabtree as the newest addition to the team’s football staff.
“Michael Crabtree changed the game at Texas Tech,” said McGuire. “To have him back, on our staff and mentoring the next generation of Red Raiders, is a massive win for our program. His knowledge of the game, his energy, and his passion for Texas Tech are exactly what we need as we take the next step forward.”
Crabtree is widely regarded as the most dominant receiver in Texas Tech history—and one of the greatest in college football. In just two seasons (2007–2008), he shattered records, becoming a household name with jaw-dropping performances and unmatched production. He won back-to-back Fred Biletnikoff Awards (best college receiver), was a consensus All-American, and left the program with 231 receptions, 3,127 receiving yards, and 41 touchdowns.
Of course, Red Raiders fans will never forget the iconic moment in 2008 when Crabtree caught the game-winning touchdown against Texas with one second left on the clock—a play that instantly became legend and helped propel Texas Tech to a No. 2 national ranking.
“Coming back to Texas Tech is special,” Crabtree said at the press conference. “This place made me who I am. I’ve always wanted to give back, and now I’ve got the chance to help build something great with Coach McGuire and this talented group of players.”
After his time in Lubbock, Crabtree enjoyed a successful NFL career, playing 11 seasons with teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens. He was known for his strong hands, route-running, and clutch performances, finishing his pro career with 637 receptions, 7,499 yards, and 54 touchdowns.
Now, he returns to college football in a role that will allow him to focus on developing receivers, analyzing game film, and contributing to offensive planning. Though not in a full-time on-field coaching position due to NCAA restrictions, Crabtree will be deeply involved in helping Texas Tech maintain its reputation as a wide receiver powerhouse.
“This is about mentoring,” Crabtree explained. “I want to help these young guys understand what it takes to be elite—on and off the field. Texas Tech is a special place, and I want to help bring back that edge, that excitement, that winning culture we had.”
Crabtree’s return has already set Red Raiders fans ablaze with excitement. Social media exploded with praise, with hashtags like #CrabtreeReturns, #RedRaiderLegend, and #WreckEmForever trending across platforms.
“I was in the stands when he caught that pass against Texas,” tweeted one fan. “Seeing him back in the scarlet and black—even as a coach—gives me chills.”
Even current players are energized by Crabtree’s return. Sophomore receiver Coy Eakin said, “It’s surreal. We all grew up watching Crabtree highlights. Now we get to learn from him every day. It’s going to push all of us to be better.”
Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt emphasized the significance of bringing back one of Texas Tech’s most iconic figures.
“Michael Crabtree represents everything we want in our program—excellence, pride, and a fearless spirit,” Hocutt said. “His return sends a message to recruits, alumni, and fans alike: Texas Tech is all in on building a championship culture.”
With the 2025 season fast approaching, expectations are high in Lubbock. The Red Raiders are coming off a strong year and are looking to take the next step in competing for a Big 12 title. The addition of Crabtree adds not just credibility to the staff, but also inspiration.
“This is more than football—it’s a family reunion,” said Coach McGuire. “When our legends come home, our future gets even brighter.”
As Crabtree begins this new chapter on the sidelines, one thing is clear: Texas Tech just brought back one of its greatest weapons—not to catch passes, but to shape the future of Red Raider football.