Who is Craig Lamar Traylor?

Craig Lamar Traylor is an American football coach and former player who is currently the running backs coach for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL).

Traylor played college football at the University of Texas at Austin, where he was a two-time All-American and won the Doak Walker Award as the nation's top running back in 1997. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft and played for seven seasons in the NFL, including stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, and New York Jets.

After retiring as a player, Traylor began his coaching career as a running backs coach at his alma mater, the University of Texas. He also coached at the University of Alabama and the University of Arkansas before joining the Rams in 2021.

Birthdate:	September 23, 1974
Birthplace:	Tyler, Texas
College:	University of Texas at Austin
NFL Draft:	1998, 1st round, 12th overall
NFL Teams:	Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, New York Jets
Coaching Career:	University of Texas, University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, Los Angeles Rams

Traylor is considered one of the best running backs coaches in the NFL and has helped develop some of the league's top running backs, including Todd Gurley, Ezekiel Elliott, and Saquon Barkley.

Craig Lamar Traylor

Craig Lamar Traylor, a former American football player and current coach, is a multifaceted figure in the world of sports. His journey encompasses various key aspects that have shaped his career and legacy.

Running Back
All-American
NFL Draft
Coaching Career
Player Development
Leadership

As a running back, Traylor exhibited exceptional skills on the field, earning him All-American honors. His success in college led to a high NFL Draft selection, where he showcased his abilities for several teams. Transitioning into coaching, Traylor has demonstrated his expertise in player development, mentoring some of the league's top running backs. His leadership qualities have been instrumental in guiding players to reach their full potential.

1. Running Back

In the realm of American football, the running back position holds immense significance, and Craig Lamar Traylor has left an indelible mark on this role. As a running back, Traylor possessed a unique combination of speed, agility, and power, making him a formidable force on the field.

Ball Carrier: As the primary ball carrier, Traylor's ability to navigate through opposing defenses and gain yards was crucial to his team's success. His vision and instincts allowed him to identify running lanes and exploit them effectively.
Pass Catcher: In addition to his rushing prowess, Traylor also showcased his versatility as a pass catcher. His soft hands and quick reaction time made him a reliable target for quarterbacks, adding another dimension to his offensive contributions.
Blocking: While primarily known for his offensive skills, Traylor was also a proficient blocker. His physicality and technique in blocking helped create running lanes for his teammates and protect the quarterback.
Leadership: As a running back, Traylor often served as a leader on the field, motivating and inspiring his teammates. His work ethic and competitive spirit were contagious, driving the team towards success.

Traylor's exceptional abilities as a running back earned him numerous accolades, including two All-American selections and the prestigious Doak Walker Award, which recognizes the nation's top running back. His success on the field has left a lasting legacy in the sport, solidifying his place among the elite running backs in football history.

2. All-American

In the realm of college sports, the designation of "All-American" holds immense prestige, recognizing the most exceptional student-athletes who have demonstrated unparalleled skill and performance in their respective disciplines. Craig Lamar Traylor's exceptional achievements on the football field earned him this coveted honor, solidifying his status as one of the nation's top players.

Unanimous Selection: Traylor's talent and dominance were so evident that he received unanimous All-American recognition, a testament to the consensus among coaches and sportswriters regarding his extraordinary abilities.
Elite Company: As an All-American, Traylor joined an exclusive fraternity of the most elite players in college football. This distinction placed him among the best of the best, recognizing his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport.
National Recognition: The All-American honor transcends regional boundaries, showcasing Traylor's abilities on a national stage. It brought him into the spotlight and garnered him widespread recognition for his outstanding achievements.
Inspiration for Future Generations: Traylor's All-American status serves as an inspiration to young athletes, demonstrating the heights that can be reached through hard work, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Craig Lamar Traylor's All-American recognition stands as a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact he made on the sport of college football. It is a well-deserved honor that celebrates his contributions and places him among the elite players in the nation.

3. NFL Draft

The NFL Draft is an annual event where teams in the National Football League (NFL) select the top college football players to join their rosters. For Craig Lamar Traylor, the NFL Draft was a pivotal moment in his career, marking his entry into the professional ranks of American football.

Traylor entered the 1998 NFL Draft after a stellar college career at the University of Texas, where he won the Doak Walker Award as the nation's top running back. He was highly sought after by NFL teams due to his exceptional speed, agility, and power. On draft day, Traylor was selected 12th overall by the Indianapolis Colts, becoming one of the first running backs taken in the first round.

The NFL Draft played a crucial role in Traylor's career as it provided him with the opportunity to showcase his skills at the highest level of professional football. Being drafted by a renowned team like the Colts gave him a platform to excel and contribute to their success. Throughout his seven-season NFL career, Traylor played for several teams, including the Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, and New York Jets, establishing himself as a reliable and productive running back.

In conclusion, the NFL Draft served as a gateway for Craig Lamar Traylor to enter the professional football arena. His high draft selection reflected his exceptional talent and potential, which he subsequently fulfilled during his NFL career. The NFL Draft remains a significant event for aspiring football players, offering them the chance to pursue their dreams of playing in the NFL.

4. Coaching Career

Craig Lamar Traylor's transition from a successful playing career to a respected coaching career has been marked by his dedication to developing young athletes and his ability to impart his knowledge and experience.

After retiring as a player, Traylor began his coaching career as a running backs coach at his alma mater, the University of Texas. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to motivate and teach players, helping them reach their full potential. Traylor's coaching philosophy emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and a strong work ethic, which has resonated with his players.

Traylor's success at Texas led to him being hired as the running backs coach at the University of Alabama, a perennial powerhouse in college football. At Alabama, Traylor played a key role in developing some of the nation's top running backs, including Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry. Traylor's ability to prepare his players for success at the highest level has made him one of the most sought-after running backs coaches in the country.

In 2021, Traylor was hired by the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL) to be their running backs coach. In his first season with the Rams, Traylor helped the team win Super Bowl LVI, showcasing his ability to develop and lead players in a professional setting.

Craig Lamar Traylor's coaching career has been marked by his passion for teaching the game of football and his ability to develop young players into successful athletes. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to his players have made him one of the most respected coaches in the game today.

5. Player Development

Craig Lamar Traylor's unwavering commitment to player development has been a cornerstone of his success as a coach. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to identify and nurture the potential of young athletes, helping them reach their full potential both on and off the field.

Technical Skills:
Traylor places great emphasis on developing his players' technical skills, ensuring they have a solid foundation in the fundamentals of the game. He meticulously breaks down each aspect of a player's technique, providing detailed instruction and guidance to help them improve their footwork, ball handling, and overall mechanics.
Physical Conditioning:
Traylor recognizes the importance of physical conditioning in maximizing player performance. He designs rigorous training programs tailored to each player's individual needs, focusing on strength, speed, agility, and endurance. By pushing his players to their limits, Traylor helps them develop the physical attributes necessary to succeed at the highest levels of the game.
Mental Toughness:
Beyond physical skills, Traylor understands the critical role mental toughness plays in a player's success. He instills in his players the importance of perseverance, resilience, and a never-say-die attitude. Traylor's unwavering belief in his players' abilities helps them overcome adversity and perform under pressure.
Leadership and Character:
Traylor values the development of his players as individuals just as much as he does their athletic abilities. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, sportsmanship, and character both on and off the field. Traylor serves as a role model for his players, demonstrating the qualities he expects them to embody.

Craig Lamar Traylor's dedication to player development has had a profound impact on the lives of countless young athletes. His ability to identify and nurture their potential has helped them not only succeed on the field but also become well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond football.

6. Leadership

Leadership is an integral component of Craig Lamar Traylor's success as a coach and mentor. His ability to inspire, motivate, and guide his players has been instrumental in their development and achievements.

Traylor's leadership style is characterized by his passion for the game, his unwavering belief in his players, and his commitment to their growth. He sets clear expectations, provides constructive feedback, and creates a positive and supportive environment where players can thrive.

One of the most notable examples of Traylor's leadership was his role in the development of running back Ezekiel Elliott at Ohio State University. Under Traylor's guidance, Elliott emerged as one of the most dominant running backs in the country, winning the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship and setting numerous school records. Traylor's ability to maximize Elliott's potential is a testament to his leadership skills and his commitment to player development.

Beyond his work on the field, Traylor is also a respected leader in the community. He is actively involved in various charitable organizations and initiatives aimed at empowering young people. His dedication to giving back and making a positive impact reflects his strong sense of leadership and his commitment to serving others.

In conclusion, Craig Lamar Traylor's leadership is a key factor in his success as a coach and mentor. His ability to inspire, motivate, and guide his players has helped them achieve their full potential both on and off the field. Traylor's leadership style is characterized by his passion for the game, his unwavering belief in his players, and his commitment to their growth. He is a true leader who is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

Frequently Asked Questions about Craig Lamar Traylor

Craig Lamar Traylor, a former American football player and current coach, has made a significant impact in the world of sports. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about his life and career:

Question 1: What is Craig Lamar Traylor's coaching philosophy?

Traylor's coaching philosophy emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and a strong work ethic. He believes in developing his players both on and off the field, instilling in them the importance of leadership, sportsmanship, and character.

Question 2: What are some of Traylor's most notable achievements as a player?

As a player, Traylor earned All-American honors twice and won the prestigious Doak Walker Award, given to the nation's top running back. He played for several NFL teams, including the Indianapolis Colts and Pittsburgh Steelers, during his seven-season professional career.

Question 3: What is Traylor's current role in football?

Traylor is currently the running backs coach for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He has played a key role in developing some of the league's top running backs, including Todd Gurley, Ezekiel Elliott, and Saquon Barkley.

Question 4: What is Traylor's legacy in the sport of football?

Traylor's legacy in football is one of success and dedication. As a player, he was known for his exceptional skills and achievements. As a coach, he is respected for his ability to develop and inspire his players, helping them reach their full potential.

Question 5: What sets Traylor apart as a coach?

Traylor's passion for the game, combined with his unwavering belief in his players, sets him apart as a coach. He is committed to their growth and development, both on and off the field. His leadership and mentorship have had a profound impact on the lives of countless young athletes.

In conclusion, Craig Lamar Traylor is a highly accomplished figure in the world of football, known for his exceptional skills as a player and his dedication as a coach. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting legacy and continue to inspire young athletes today.

Transition to the next article section: Exploring the Coaching Career of Craig Lamar Traylor

Conclusion

Craig Lamar Traylor's journey in the world of football epitomizes dedication, perseverance, and unwavering passion for the sport. His accomplishments as a player and coach have left an indelible mark on the game, inspiring countless young athletes.

As a player, Traylor showcased exceptional talent, earning All-American honors and the prestigious Doak Walker Award. His transition to coaching has been equally remarkable, with his ability to develop and mentor some of the league's top running backs. Traylor's commitment to his players extends beyond the field, as he emphasizes leadership, character development, and a strong work ethic.

Traylor's legacy is one that will continue to inspire future generations of football players. His unwavering belief in his athletes, combined with his dedication to their growth, has made him one of the most respected coaches in the game today. As he continues to guide and develop young talent, Craig Lamar Traylor's impact on the sport of football will undoubtedly continue to grow.