Maxx Crosby: The Unstoppable Force Anchoring the Raiders
Las Vegas Raiders' star defensive end, Maxx Crosby, continues to redefine the essence of resilience and dedication in the NFL. As co-host of the recent "Sack Summit" at UNLV, Crosby, alongside Von Miller and Cameron Jordan, shared his refined techniques and strategies with fellow defensive linemen. The summit, a coveted event among elite defensive players, now benefits from Crosby's insights and unmatched dedication to the game.
Reflecting on Crosby’s journey, Von Miller commented, "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."
A Season of Perseverance
Crosby's 2022 season was a testament to his relentless spirit. Playing through significant injuries to his left knee and thumb, which later required surgeries in January, Crosby never allowed his performance to wane. "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," Crosby explained, showcasing his commitment to being on the field, no matter the adversity.
His sacrifices bore fruit, as he posted career-high numbers, including 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles, despite participating in 95% of Las Vegas' defensive snaps. Crosby's performance earned him a well-deserved second-team All-Pro honor and a Pro Bowl selection for the third consecutive year. Rob Ryan, the Raiders' senior defensive assistant who has seen numerous talents in his 30 years in football, remarked, "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."
Unyielding Determination
Following his surgeries, Crosby began his rigorous recovery program on January 22. His unfaltering dedication to his craft is evident in his own words, "I had to get two major surgeries, and it's been different, but at the end of the day, there's not one street to get to where you want to go, there's multiple." This mindset has shaped his approach to both recovery and preparation, embodying a work ethic that separates him from many 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 added.
The offseason has been a period of reflection and growth for Crosby. "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 explained, emphasizing his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Steady Leadership Amidst Change
Crosby stands as one of the few remnants of the Raiders' Oakland era, a pillar of stability amidst a backdrop of organizational change. Since 2019, the Raiders have navigated through four head coaches—Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce—compiling a 39-44 record with a sole playoff appearance. Through it all, Crosby's consistency has been a beacon for the team.
Continuing to build their roster, the Raiders introduced Thayer Munford as the new starting right tackle, aiming to bolster their offensive line. Antonio Pierce, Raiders’ coach, is optimistic about Munford's impact, "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team."
Looking Ahead: Maximizing Potential
This offseason, the Raiders recognized Crosby's immense value to the team, rewarding him with a $6 million raise without extending his contract. Previously, in March 2022, Crosby signed a four-year extension worth $95 million, including over $53 million guaranteed, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the franchise.
As Maxx Crosby continues to recover and prepare for the upcoming season, his journey remains an inspiring narrative of perseverance, dedication, and unyielding drive to be the best. With every snap, he embodies the spirit of the Raiders, pushing the team forward and setting new standards of excellence. The league watches in anticipation, knowing that Crosby's best is yet to come.