The Undrafted Wonder: Can Howard Cross III Defy the Odds?
The world of sports is full of captivating stories, and the NFL is no exception. One such tale is unfolding with Howard Cross III, a young man with a unique journey ahead of him. This article delves into the potential of this undrafted player and the intriguing path he's embarking on.
Cross, a former Notre Dame standout, is an intriguing prospect, but his NFL journey began on a less-than-ideal note. Despite an impressive college career, he went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. This raises an intriguing question: Is draft position truly indicative of a player's potential?
In my opinion, the NFL Draft is as much an art as it is a science. Teams often fixate on physical attributes, overlooking intangibles like determination and football IQ. Cross, at 6-foot-1 and 285 pounds, may not fit the typical mold of an NFL defensive tackle, but his college performance speaks volumes.
What many don't realize is that football is as much a mental game as it is physical. Cross's understanding of defensive concepts, honed under Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden at Notre Dame, is a significant advantage. This is a player who knows how to read offenses and disrupt their plans.
His college stats are impressive: 169 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks in 65 games. But what truly stands out is his recognition as a Second-Team All-American in 2023 and 2024, contributing to Notre Dame's success in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. This is a player who consistently performs on the big stage.
The Bengals, recognizing his potential, signed Cross to a 1-year contract, offering him a chance to prove himself. His rookie season was a learning curve, spending most of it on the practice squad before making his debut in four games.
Personally, I find the Bengals' approach intriguing. They're not expecting an overnight sensation, but a rotational player who brings intensity and pressure. This is a testament to the value of hard work and adaptability in the NFL.
The key to Cross's success lies in his ability to refine his physical attributes while retaining his explosiveness. If he can do this, he may become the next great undrafted success story, following in the footsteps of players like Tony Romo and Kurt Warner.
In the NFL, size isn't everything. It's about finding the right fit, understanding the game, and maximizing your strengths. Cross has the raw talent and a unique opportunity. Now, it's about harnessing that potential and making his mark in the league.
