Carson Steele quickly won the hearts of MAC fans, and his charm only grew stronger as he joined the Kansas City Chiefs, capturing the admiration of NFL supporters even more.
Steele’s college journey, however, is one of the most unique journeys out there.
The Legend of Carson Steele, Crocky-J Began in Muncie
Steele’s college football journey has been nothing short of remarkable, evolving from a standout at Ball State to a rising star at UCLA, with his captivating personal story — notably his now-famous pet alligator, Crocky-J — further fueling his legend.
Steele burst onto the scene at Ball State in 2021, having been highly regarded coming out of Center Grove High School in Greenwood, Indiana, where he had a distinguished prep career. His impact was immediate as a true freshman, where he quickly established himself as a key player for the Cardinals.
His debut season saw him rushing for 891 yards and six touchdowns on 192 carries, showcasing a blend of power and persistence that defined his running style.
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His impressive performance earned him a spot on the All-MAC Freshman team, highlighting his capability to handle a significant workload and deliver consistent results. Steele’s physicality, vision, and knack for breaking tackles were evident from the start, marking him as a critical component of Ball State’s offensive scheme.
In 2022, Steele’s sophomore season was a breakout year that cemented his status as one of the premier running backs in the MAC.
He amassed an impressive 1,556 rushing yards on 289 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per carry, and crossed the goal line 14 times. His performance not only made him the second-leading rusher in the MAC but also placed him among the top ten rushers nationally.
Steele’s versatility was further showcased with 29 receptions for 166 yards, underlining his ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air. His relentless running style and physical toughness earned him First-Team All-MAC honors and drew national attention as a legitimate NFL prospect.
Following his standout sophomore season, Steele made a significant move by transferring to UCLA ahead of the 2023 season. This transition marked a leap in competition level, as he joined the Pac-12 conference, where he would face tougher defenses and larger stages on the Power Five level.
At UCLA, Steele brought his signature blend of power, durability, and resilience to the Bruins’ backfield. His presence complemented the already dynamic offense under head coach Chip Kelly, adding a new dimension to UCLA’s rushing attack.
Steele’s adaptation to UCLA underscored his growth and potential, as he continued to excel at a higher level of play. His performance with the Bruins further solidified his reputation as a formidable running back and a promising NFL prospect.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Steele’s off-the-field story involving his pet alligator, Crocky-J, has added a unique and endearing dimension to his public persona. Crocky-J, a small alligator that Steele has cared for since childhood, gained fame through social media and interviews.
Steele first acquired Crocky-J during middle school, and the gator has remained a cherished part of his life ever since.
The unusual choice of a pet might seem surprising, but Steele’s bond with Crocky-J is genuine and has only endeared him further to fans. Crocky-J has become a symbol of Steele’s personality, representing his toughness and distinctive approach to life.
The relationship with his pet alligator highlights Steele’s adventurous spirit and his ability to blend his unique interests with his football career.
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Steele has often spoken about how caring for Crocky-J has taught him valuable lessons in responsibility and patience, traits that have undoubtedly contributed to his success on the field. Now with the Chiefs, it’s easy to see why he is one of the most intriguing and talented players in recent college football history.
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