Jeremy Crawshaw, a 23-year-old from Emu Plains, Sydney, is set to join the Denver Broncos as one of the NFL’s newest punters. Drafted in the sixth round as the 216th pick, Crawshaw’s entry into the NFL marks a significant milestone in his career, following five successful seasons with the University of Florida Gators.
Crawshaw, widely regarded as the top punter in the 2025 draft class, had an impressive college career, culminating in a standout 2024 season where he averaged 45.8 yards per punt, with 25 of those punts downed inside the 20-yard line. His performance in 2023 was even more remarkable, setting a Gators’ single-season record with an average of 48.9 yards per punt. His strong leg and accuracy have made him a coveted asset in the NFL, where his skills are expected to make an immediate impact.
While Crawshaw’s primary competition in Denver will be veteran punter Matt Haack, who signed a one-year contract with the team earlier in the year, the NFL typically favors specialists like punters and kickers once they are drafted, signaling that Crawshaw will likely have a strong chance to secure a starting role. The Broncos’ punter competition is expected to be fierce, but Crawshaw is eager to compete and has spent considerable time analyzing Haack’s game.
Crawshaw’s background in rugby union, which he played extensively as a child, offers him a unique skill set that could give him an edge in the punting game. This connection to rugby-style kicking has been credited with helping Australian punters excel in the NFL, as it provides them with the versatility to execute a range of punts, from traditional kicks to rugby-style rollers. This skill set is particularly valuable in outdoor NFL stadiums, where wind and weather conditions can be unpredictable. His ability to manage these elements with precision is expected to make him a valuable asset for the Broncos’ special teams unit.
His entry into the NFL adds him to a growing list of Australian punters in the league, including Tory Taylor (Chicago Bears), Mitch Wishnowsky (San Francisco 49ers), Michael Dickson (Seattle Seahawks), and Cameron Johnston (Pittsburgh Steelers). This trend highlights the increasing influence of Australian players in the NFL, particularly in special teams.
Crawshaw’s scouting report highlighted his blend of power, touch, and directional control, making him an ideal fit for teams that place a premium on special teams play. His development throughout his college career, particularly under the high-pressure conditions of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), has helped him mature into one of the top punting prospects in recent years. His experience with placekicks, having served as a holder in college, also adds flexibility to his skill set, making him an even more valuable asset to the Broncos’ roster.
Denver’s special teams coordinator, Darren Rizzi, has expressed a strong appreciation for Australian-born punters, believing their rugby background suits the NFL’s punting strategies. Rizzi, formerly with the New Orleans Saints, has worked with several Australian punters, including Lou Hedley, and is familiar with the unique advantages these players bring to the game. It is reported that Rizzi personally sought out Crawshaw during Florida’s Pro Day, where discussions about joining the Broncos began.
As Crawshaw embarks on his NFL journey, he brings with him not only his impressive skills but also the potential for a long and successful career in the league. His ceiling is high, with many experts predicting he could enjoy a decade-long career as a reliable NFL punter, possibly even earning Pro Bowl honors. The future looks bright for this Australian talent as he begins his professional football career in Denver.
