Mohawk hairstyle
Criswell was born and raised in Grinnell, Iowa, where he attended Grinnell High School. A standout in high school, Criswell was recruited to play collegiate football by several universities. He elected to play for the University of Kansas. The Jayhawks did not produce any strong teams during his time with them, but Criswell was noticed due to his passionate style of play. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 1980 NFL draft. Criswell, who sported a Mohawk hairstyle during training camp, was waived by the Bengals before the start of 1980 football season but then signed by Green Bay. Green Bay cut Criswell two days later.