Channing Crowder was a highly touted linebacker at North Springs High School, in Georgia. He also boasted an NFL pedigree, as his father, Randy Crowder, played six seasons in the NFL in the 1970's including three with the Dolphins, in which he appeared in 39 games, starting 25 at right defensive tackle.
Crowder gained accolades throughout his college career playing for the Florida Gators, including all-SEC and All-American honors following the 2004 season.
Crowder was drafted by the Dolphins in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, with the 70th overall pick. He would wear number 52, and appear in every game his rookie season, including 13 starts at right linebacker. The team started 3-7 but won their last six, finishing with a winning record but missing out on the playoffs. Crowder was third on the team with 85 tackles, forcing two fumbles and recovering a third.
In 2006, the Dolphins struggled to a 6-10 record, finishing with their third losing record in the prior 30 years, and their second of their last three. Crowder again played in every game, shifting over to the left side linebacker position for 14 starts. He finished second on the team, with 104 tackles.
2007 would see the Dolphins endure the worst season of their existence, setting the mark of futility with a 1-15 record. Crowder missed five games due to a foot injury and later a concussion. Perhaps as a mark of the Dolphins' ineptitude, he still managed to lead the team with 78 tackles.
2008 would mark a return to form for the franchise, as "football savior" Chad Pennington quarterbacked the team back into the playoffs with an 11-5 record. It was a good year for Crowder also, as he finished second on the team with 113 tackles and knocked down a career high six passes.
Miami rolled into the stretch run of the 2009 season looking good for a playoff seed, at 7-6. Crowder logged his first career interception in a week 12 victory against the New England Patriots, 22-21. With three games to go, Crowder was placed on the DL, with a right foot injury. Perhaps coincidentally, the Dolphins would lose their last three games and fall out of contention, finishing 7-9.
Crowder started 11 games at left inside linebacker in 2010, but the Dolphins again lost their last three games to finish 7-9. Crowder was released by Miami prior to the 2011 season, and would announce his retirement 11 days later.
Crowder has since announced his intention to play again in the NFL, but not for Miami. He is currently a radio show host for WQAM.