Craphonso Thorpe Eyes Return to the NFL

Veteran NFL receiver Craphonso Thorpe is persistent. In the fifth year of a career that has spanned over six different teams and three leagues, he is still making the necessary adjustments in order to guarantee success.

Last summer, he shined as a member of New York Sentinels during the United Football League’s inaugural season. Despite the team’s struggles, Craphonso put up terrific numbers as the team’s go-to wide receiver, finishing second in the league with 27 receptions.

After his successful UFL season, Craphonso expected to be within the select few UFL players who made the move back to NFL rosters, but was disappointed when no one called. In an effort to take control of his fate, he has recently hired new agents for the 2010 season, signing with Chicago-based Kaufmann Sports Management Group. He is excited about the potential that KSMG has to offer him.

“[KSMG] offers many different things,” Craphonso said. “They are very professional, and I felt like they would be able to do a great job for me.”

Craphonso remains steadfast in his attempt to return to the NFL, a place he has spent parts of five years, beginning with the Kansas City Chiefs as their fourth round draft choice in 2005. He is working out tirelessly at Competitive Edge Sports in Atlanta with other NFL players, preparing for the upcoming season.

Craphonso has gained close to ten pounds since playing in the NFL, currently weighing about 200 pounds while still maintaining his explosive speed that made him the ACC Outdoor Track Performer of the Year while at Florida State. Knowing the road back to the NFL is difficult, he has put in the necessary hours in the weight room and on the practice field.

“The hardest part is getting back,” Craphonso said. “I’ve been with a few clubs and there are lots of reasons you can get released. Sometimes it comes down to numbers or a draft pick.

“I am hoping to find somewhere I can get in and show the team that I still have the talent and ability to play at a high level.”

Though he still eyes the NFL, Craphonso said he truly enjoyed his UFL experience last season.

“The UFL was great for me,” he said. “Being able to get back out on the field and just get my hands on the football again, it was a blessing that the league came about to give players like myself another opportunity.”

With his past success, immense talent, and work ethic, Craphonso shouldn’t be doubted on his quest back to the NFL.