Maxx Crosby Shines Amid Challenges: A Deep Dive into the Raiders' Standout Season
The recent "Sack Summit" at UNLV turned into a valuable knowledge-sharing platform for defensive linemen, with prominent figures such as Maxx Crosby, Von Miller, and Cameron Jordan leading the event. Maxx Crosby, in particular, stood out, not only for his burgeoning reputation but for his hands-on involvement, co-hosting the summit alongside his seasoned peers.
Miller, reflecting on Crosby’s dedication and growth, said, "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." Miller’s words underscore the respect Crosby has garnered among league veterans.
Perseverance Through Pain
Maxx Crosby's determination came to the fore last season as he played through significant injuries. Suffering from a knee injury in Week 2 and a damaged thumb, both requiring surgery in January, Crosby was a model of resilience. He participated in 95% of the Las Vegas Raiders' defensive snaps, despite being "damn near limited every single day, the whole season in practice.” Adjusting his practice routine to preserve his knee for game days, Crosby’s commitment to his team and personal performance never wavered.
"I had to get two major surgeries, and it's been different," Crosby explained, "but at the end of the day, there's not one street to get to where you want to go, there's multiple." His words resonate with the many paths athletes must navigate to reach peak performance.
A Season of Success
Crosby’s on-field performance was nothing short of stellar. He posted career-high numbers with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles, securing a second-team All-Pro nod and a Pro Bowl selection for the third consecutive year. “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,” commented Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan, marking high praise from a veteran with three decades in football.
Despite the team’s efforts, the Raiders have had their share of instability. Four coaches since 2019—Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce—and a 39-44 record during this period reflect the rollercoaster ride the franchise has been on. Nonetheless, Crosby remains a cornerstone, one of only two Raiders still on the roster who played with the team in Oakland.
Crosby’s importance to the Raiders was further recognized in the offseason with a $6 million raise, although this did not extend his current contract. His four-year extension signed in March 2022 is worth $95 million, with over $53 million guaranteed, testament to his value to the team and the league.
Looking to the Future
Beyond his personal accolades, Crosby’s influence extends to fostering new talent within the Raiders. Thayer Munford is set to start as the team’s right tackle, and head coach Antonio Pierce believes the interactions and mentorships within the team will accelerate Munford's development. "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team," Pierce remarked.
Crosby’s recovery program, which began on January 22, illustrates his unyielding dedication. He remarked, "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." This relentless pursuit of excellence and his holistic approach to recovery and performance underline why he remains one of the league's top defensive players.
"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," Crosby asserted, epitomizing his unwavering work ethic.
As the Raiders navigate another pivotal season, Maxx Crosby’s blend of skill, leadership, and perseverance will undoubtedly be crucial. With the support and mentorship from seasoned coaches and peers, Crosby’s influence promises to extend well beyond his on-field heroics, carving a legacy defined by tenacity and excellence.