London Crawford Released from Mass Pirates

Courtesy of Paul Richard, Mass Pirates

​Suspiciously absent from the Pirates roster on Saturday’s win over the Steelhawks was wide receiver London Crawford. Three days before game day, Crawford posted in the National Arena League News Facebook group: "In life a lot of decisions are made biased (sic) off of emotions and feelings all of my decisions are made off of what’s best for me and my family today I asked for my release from the mass pirates. I want to thank all of the fans that supported me and all of my teammates I grew relationships with will miss each and everyone of you. Every situation doesn’t call for a response when you grow as a player and a man professionalism shows on a high level. Looking forward to my next journey for whatever team I sign for so stay tuned.”

Obviously this unsolicited and ominous post was a surprise to Pirate Nation and the NAL community. Following that statement were several well wishes from fans and players. Among these was a comment that Crawford sat the bench when he should be playing. Other comments made inferences to what uniform Crawford would wear next: Sharks, maybe? At the time of this article, we just don't know. 

What we do know is London Crawford played in just 5 games in the 2018 season, had 13 receptions for a total of 74 yards. With these catches Crawford tallied one rushing and one receiving touchdown. Unimpressive numbers for the 6’3” University of Arkansas alumni, but one would argue Pirates coaches had receivers like Devonn Brown, Levon Pearson and Mardy Gilyard to play in his stead.

Exclusive to Arena Football Talk was the official statement from the Massachusetts Pirates front office about London Crawford’s departure: “It was a pleasure having London on the team, his veteran presence and work ethic was an asset to our ball club. Mutually we felt it was best to release London from his contract, and we wish the best for him moving forward.”

---