Tim Krumrie carved out a gritty, dependable 12-year NFL career after the Bengals took him in the 10th round of the 1983 NFL Draft. A relentless, no-nonsense defender, he quickly became a staple of Cincinnati’s defense, earning second-team All-Pro honors in 1987 and first-team honors in 1988 during the team’s run to Super Bowl 23. That game is where his legend truly took shape — early in the first quarter, he broke both bones in his lower leg making a tackle. The sight of him being carted off with his leg in an air cast became an iconic and brutal image. But true to form, Krumrie returned the next season, played all 16 games in 1989, and earned the 1990 George Halas Award for overcoming adversity.
By the time he retired in 1994, Krumrie had racked up 1,017 tackles (700 solo), 34.5 sacks, 11 forced fumbles, 13 recoveries, and 10 passes defended over 188 games. Known for his nonstop motor and willingness to fight through injuries, he anchored the Bengals’ defensive front for nearly a decade, often taking on double teams without complaint. His contributions didn’t go unnoticed — he was inducted into the Bengals Ring of Honor and named to both the franchise’s 40th and 50th Anniversary Teams. A blue-collar warrior through and through, Krumrie remains one of the most beloved players in team history.
Bengals Legend Tim Krumrie Set to Announce Pick in Draft Day 2 Cameo
Krumrie, 64, is stepping back into the spotlight in 2025. He’ll announce one of Cincinnati’s picks on Day 2 of the NFL Draft, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Before his NFL days, Krumrie was a standout at Wisconsin. He led the Badgers in tackles all four years from 1979 to 1982 and was a three-time first-team All-Big Ten selection. He earned consensus All-American honors in 1981 and finished his college career as one of the most productive defenders in school history.
Krumrie wasn’t just a football guy, either. He also wrestled at Wisconsin, placing fifth in the heavyweight division at the 1980 Big Ten Championships. His two-sport toughness helped shape his reputation. He was inducted into the University of Wisconsin Hall of Fame in 1999 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
After hanging up the cleats, Krumrie moved into coaching, working as a defensive line coach for the Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and the UFL’s Hartford Colonials. These days, he stays active by biking up to 30 miles a day and running five to eight miles every other day. He’s also spoken openly about his experiences with brain trauma symptoms from his playing days and says treatment has helped him improve his quality of life.