Maxx Crosby Shines Through Adversity and Leadership
Maxx Crosby's journey to becoming one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. Recently, Crosby co-hosted the "Sack Summit" at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) alongside esteemed peers Von Miller and Cameron Jordan. This event, which serves as a congregation for defensive linemen to exchange techniques and strategies, highlights Crosby's ascension in the league.
“Maxx had been coming here for years, and to see his growth and his development into one of the best pass rushers in the league, he loved my baby like it was his. So, I just thought it was natural just to bring Maxx in… to kind of give [him] a piece of it, just to ensure the life of the [Sack] Summit. I don't know how many years I got left, but Maxx, he's going to play another 10,” said Von Miller, emphasizing the respect and admiration within their fraternity.
While the summit offered valuable insights and camaraderie, it was Crosby's perseverance last season that truly sets him apart. Playing with injuries to his left knee and thumb, both of which required surgeries in January, Crosby’s resolve was unwavering. “I was damn near limited every single day, the whole season in practice… I had to learn to make an adjustment because I can't just go out there and run my knee into the ground. I had to be ready for Sunday,” he shared.
Despite the physical setbacks, Crosby dominated on the field, recording career-high numbers with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles. His performance earned him a second-team All-Pro nod and a Pro Bowl selection for the third consecutive year.
In addition to his on-field heroics, Crosby's contributions to the Raiders' locker room and leadership cannot be overstated. “You talk about fight camps [lasting] maybe three months, four months; I do it 365 [days]. So that's why I feel like, at the end of the day, my consistency is what separates myself and it will only keep getting me better because I don't leave any stone unturned,” explained Crosby, illustrating his relentless work ethic.
His dedication did not go unnoticed by the Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan, who has over 30 years of experience in football. “When you talk about Maxx Crosby, you're talking about the best defensive player in the league, probably in the history, that I've ever seen... he's that good,” praised Ryan.
Crosby’s journey through injuries and recovery only adds to his legend. After sustaining a knee injury in Week 2, he still participated in 95% of the defensive snaps for Las Vegas, demonstrating incredible resilience and commitment. His personal recovery program began on January 22, and he has made significant strides since.
Moreover, Crosby's financial situation saw a positive turn as he received a $6 million raise in the offseason without extending his contract. This comes on the heels of a four-year extension signed in March 2022, worth $95 million, with over $53 million guaranteed.
The leadership vacuum left by longtime Raiders has been partially filled by Crosby, one of only two players remaining on the roster who played with the team in Oakland. His experience and leadership are especially crucial as the Raiders navigate a period of transition, having seen four head coaches since 2019 – Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce.
The Raiders' 39-44 record since 2019 includes just one playoff appearance, highlighting the fluctuating fortunes of the franchise. Yet, with emerging talents like Thayer Munford, the new starting right tackle, there is optimism for growth. “Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team,” said Raiders coach Antonio Pierce.
Crosby's goals remain undeterred, blending personal ambition with team success. “It made me take a step back so I could take three steps forward, and I feel like that's what this offseason was all about—my one goal is to be the best in the world, pound for pound, and I talk about it, I'm about it, I live it every single day and whatever street I've got to travel to get to where I want to go, I'm going to do that,” he asserted with the determination that has come to define his career.
The accolades, the relentless pursuit of excellence, and his contributions on and off the field make Maxx Crosby a pivotal figure for the Raiders and a beacon of resilience and leadership in the NFL.