Maxx Crosby: The Rise of a Defensive Powerhouse
Las Vegas Raiders' defensive end Maxx Crosby has been a force to be reckoned with in the NFL, playing through injuries and consistently posting career-high numbers. His recent co-hosting role at the "Sack Summit" at UNLV alongside renowned players Von Miller and Cameron Jordan is a testament to his growth and influence in the league.
At the event, which gathers defensive linemen to discuss techniques and strategies, Crosby could be seen immersed in discussions, noting down valuable insights in his notebook. This dedication to his craft is just one of the elements that have propelled Crosby to the top tier of defensive players in the NFL.
Playing Through Pain
Last season, Crosby showcased remarkable resilience, playing through injuries to his left knee and thumb, both of which required surgeries in January. "I was damn near limited every single day, the whole season in practice," Crosby revealed. "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’s left knee injury occurred as early as Week 2, yet he still managed to participate in 95% of Las Vegas' defensive snaps. This commitment paid off handsomely as Crosby achieved career-highs with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles, earning him second-team All-Pro honors and a third consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Future Prospects
After undergoing significant surgeries, Crosby began his personal recovery program on January 22. He acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic about his journey. "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," he said.
Crosby's relentless dedication to his recovery and improvement resonates with his philosophy of perseverance and hard work. "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," he explained.
Leadership and Influence
Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan, with three decades of football experience, doesn't hesitate to praise Crosby. "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. Now, I've only been around it 30 years, but I mean, he's that good," Ryan stated.
Von Miller, who has observed Crosby's growth firsthand, commented on his involvement in the Sack Summit. "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."
The Raiders' Journey
Since 2019, the Raiders have experienced significant changes, including four head coaches and a 39-44 record with just one playoff appearance. Despite these challenges, Crosby remains a consistent bright spot for the team. He is one of two Raiders still on the roster who played with the team in Oakland, highlighting his loyalty and resilience amidst the team’s transitions.
During the offseason, Crosby received a $6 million raise, although his contract was not extended. He had previously signed a four-year extension worth $95 million, with over $53 million guaranteed, in March 2022. This financial commitment underscores the Raiders' recognition of Crosby's value to the team.
Looking Forward
As the Raiders gear up for the upcoming season, there's a spotlight on new starting right tackle Thayer Munford. Raiders coach Antonio Pierce expressed his hopes for Munford's impact, saying, "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team."
Crosby, meanwhile, continues to set ambitious goals for himself. "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.
Maxx Crosby’s journey, marked by perseverance, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, serves as an inspiring narrative in the world of sports. His continued evolution and impact both on and off the field leave fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipating what the future holds for this defensive powerhouse.