Crouch still finds joy in football

Former Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch joined Chop to talk about his college, professional and future broadcast career.

Crouch won the Heisman in 2001, capping off a career that included over 4,000 yards passing and 3,000 yards rushing at Nebraska. However, after being drafted in the third round of the NFL Draft, his time playing professionally became much more turbulent.

Crouch's career lasted 10 years in five leagues across the world. He spent time in the NFL with St. Louis and Green Bay, NFL Europe, the CFL, All American Football League and the UFL. He played a multitude of positions, including quarterback, wide receiver and safety.

"I didn't know what position I would be playing [coming out of college]," Crouch said. "I just ... regret not being true to myself and saying 'Hey, Jim, I want to play quarterback.' "

Crouch's life as a professional player was permanently derailed by a series of injuries. Today, he says he now understands health is his most important asset.

"I want to do the simple things with my kids," Crouch said. "Throw the football, wrestle around on the ground without saying 'Hey, I can't do that, I can't do this, you're going to have to play with somebody else.' "

"There's a time that you just have to be real with yourself and say, 'You know I've given it the best shot that I could ... I had a great career, and feel comfortable with that.' "

Now, Crouch has found a new passion: broadcasting. He was recently hired to be a part of FOX's coverage of college football as an analyst along with fellow '01 Heisman finalist, Joey Harrington. Crouch says it's the best way to keep in touch with the game he loves.

"I'm really looking forward to getting back into college football," Crouch commented. "Really looking forward to enjoying game day, just the emotion you get from the game."

Crouch also encourages players that expect to play their whole life to "have a back-up plan, and be ready to activate it."

Listen to the interview: