SAN DIEGO ---- Antonio Cromartie is an athlete. There's no questioning that.

Just look at above the entrance to Chargers Park, where a giant photo shows Cromartie making an improbable interception of Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. The now famous picture shows Cromartie suspended in midair, craning back to make a one-handed pick few thought he could bring down.

It was just one of three interceptions nabbed by Cromartie that day in 2007, which stands as Cromartie's formal coming out party. He became a national celebrity that day, the highlight of a tremendous season where he had 10 interceptions despite playing nickel back most of the year.

Stardom was due to raw athleticism more than anything else, as Cromartie used his uncommon agility, hops and closing speed to intercept any errant pass thrown his way.

While he earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2007, Cromartie believes he's a better player now that ever despite collecting just two interceptions in nine games.

"I think I'm having better year than I did in '07," Cromartie said after Thursday's practice. "I'm playing a lot more consistent, and I'm letting the coaches and my teammates know that they can expect the best out of me week in and week."

While interceptions used to be his obsession, Cromartie's priorities have changed. He values technique and consistency above all else in the interest of becoming a well-rounded player.

"The little things make me a better, more complete corner," Cromartie said. "I could just sit back and rely on my God-given abilities, but I can be a better player if I can combine athleticism and proper technique."

Coaches and players have notice such improvement, especially after the bye week. Cromartie admittedly had his worst game of the season at Pittsburgh, when he was routinely picked on by Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and receiver Santonio Holmes. While he complained about the defensive scheme via Twitter shortly after the game, his frustration turned inward during the week.

He went back to basics during the bye week and crafted his technique with one rep after another.

"The eyes, feet, hips and hands are a cornerback's weapons," Chargers secondary coach Steve Wilks said. "His eye discipline and footwork is press coverage has greatly improved, as has his ability to change direction at a moment's notice.

"Most importantly he's locked in and trying to concentrate on doing the little things right and master his technique. He's always been a film guy, but his emphasis on the details has really paid off."

That's a major change from 2008, when he boldly and publicly professed his plans to get 15 interceptions that season. He didn't come close. Cromartie had just two interceptions that season ---- both in week 3 against the New York Jets ---- and struggled in pass coverage. He was humbled by the experience, although he could've used a torn hip flexor as an excuse for his drop in production.

Instead he put effort into his workouts, his technique and his on-field state of mind.

"I don't really care about picks anymore," Cromartie said. "If we can stop the pass like we've been doing and we keep winning, then I'm satisfied. If you're playing good, fundamental coverage your guy's not going to be open and you won' t get many balls thrown your way. That's when you know you're doing your job."

While those efforts won't wow fans like his flurry of 2007 interceptions, it has helped stabilize the secondary this season. Wilks can see it on game tape, where Cromartie's subtle improvement is easier to spot than with the naked eye.

"You can see him trying to perfect his technique in man coverage and his discipline in zone," Wilks said. "He's trying to become that complete football player."