In a stunning and celebratory turn of events, Michael Crabtree—one of the most iconic players in Texas Tech football history—has officially returned to Lubbock. This time, however, it’s not to don the scarlet and black jersey but to help shape the next generation of Red Raiders from within the program. The former two-time Biletnikoff Award winner has accepted a newly created position within the Texas Tech football department, marking a symbolic and strategic homecoming that has been met with widespread praise from alumni, fans, and analysts.
Crabtree, whose name still echoes in the annals of college football history, is regarded as one of the most dominant wide receivers to ever grace the NCAA gridiron. During his legendary collegiate career, he transformed Texas Tech into a national conversation starter, captivating audiences with his unparalleled athleticism, crisp route-running, and game-breaking ability. Now, nearly a decade and a half after his unforgettable catch against Texas in 2008—one that instantly became one of the greatest plays in college football lore—he returns to his alma mater with a renewed sense of purpose and a different kind of mission.
Texas Tech announced the news early Friday morning, with Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt and Head Coach Joey McGuire standing side by side with Crabtree as he was introduced at the Jones AT&T Stadium. While the specific title and duties of Crabtree’s role have yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that his position will be multifaceted—spanning mentorship, player development, alumni engagement, and recruitment.
For the Red Raiders, this hire isn’t just ceremonial—it’s strategic. With the NCAA landscape shifting rapidly due to NIL deals, the transfer portal, and an increasingly competitive recruiting climate, having a respected and recognizable figure like Crabtree within the program sends a powerful message. It signals Texas Tech’s commitment to tradition, its investment in player development, and its ability to leverage star power for long-term growth.
Crabtree’s return has reignited excitement across the Texas Tech community. Social media erupted moments after the announcement, with current and former players expressing their admiration and gratitude for the move. “Michael Crabtree coming back to Tech is the best news we’ve had in years,” tweeted a former Red Raiders lineman. “He’s more than a legend—he’s a blueprint for what’s possible.”
Indeed, few college players have ever reached the heights that Crabtree achieved during his short but electrifying collegiate career. In just two seasons at Texas Tech (2007 and 2008), he caught 231 passes for 3,127 yards and an astounding 41 touchdowns. He won the Biletnikoff Award in back-to-back years—an unprecedented feat—and became synonymous with Mike Leach’s air raid offense, which rewrote the expectations for what passing football could look like in the Big 12.
While his time in the NFL with teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Oakland Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens further cemented his status as an elite wide receiver, it was his time in Lubbock that made him a legend. And now, as he prepares to walk the sidelines once more, this time in a mentoring capacity, the anticipation around his impact is palpable.
Joey McGuire, who has steadily rebuilt and rebranded Texas Tech football since taking over as head coach, expressed his enthusiasm for Crabtree’s addition. “This is bigger than football,” McGuire said at the press event. “This is about legacy, leadership, and building a bridge between generations. Michael understands what it means to wear that Double T. He lived it. He lifted it. And now, he’s going to help us raise it even higher.”
Sources close to the program have indicated that Crabtree will be deeply involved in mentoring Texas Tech’s wide receivers, helping them refine their skills and prepare for both collegiate and professional success. Additionally, his presence is expected to be a major asset in recruiting. High school prospects across Texas and beyond grew up watching Crabtree’s highlights on YouTube and ESPN Classic; now, they’ll have a chance to learn directly from the man himself.
Perhaps just as significantly, Crabtree’s new role also includes a component of alumni relations and community engagement. Texas Tech has long maintained a passionate fan base, and bringing back one of the most beloved figures in program history is bound to deepen that connection. From charity events to youth camps, Crabtree’s presence in Lubbock is poised to become a symbol of continuity, pride, and possibility.
For Crabtree, the return is personal. At Friday’s announcement, he reflected on his journey and what this new opportunity means to him. “Texas Tech gave me everything,” he said, his voice full of emotion. “It gave me a shot when nobody else believed in me. It gave me a stage. It gave me family. Coming back isn’t about reliving the past—it’s about building the future. I want to help these young guys grow not just as players, but as men. I’ve been where they are. I know what it takes. And I’m ready to give back, 100 percent.”
His words struck a chord not just with fans but with recruits as well. Within hours of the announcement, multiple high school prospects posted messages expressing their excitement over potentially working with Crabtree. “That’s a dream mentor right there,” said one top wide receiver from Houston. “I grew up watching that catch against Texas. The thought of being coached by him? Unreal.”
