Crowell attended the University of Virginia, where he served as co-captain in 2002. Received 1st Team All-ACC honors in 2002. Set a school record for tackles of 144 in 2001, and then broke his own record the following year.
He served primarily as a reserve linebacker for his first two seasons, playing only on special teams. In 2005, after Takeo Spikes went down with a season ending tear of the Achilles tendon Crowell took a spot on the starting roster. He went on that season to record 119 tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 2 interceptions in 12 starts.
In the summer of 2006, he was named the starting strong side linebacker by Buffalo head coach Dick Jauron, replacing Jeff Posey. Crowell started every game until suffering a late season injury against the San Diego Chargers.
Crowell underwent arm surgery after tearing his triceps muscle in the final game of the 2007 season.[3]
On September 4, 2008, Crowell was placed on season-ending injured reserve after undergoing knee surgery.