Maxx Crosby's Journey: A Season of Trials and Triumphs
Maxx Crosby's dedication and resilience were on full display last season as he battled through significant injuries to his left knee and thumb. Both required surgeries in January, but Crosby's determination never wavered. Despite injuring his knee in Week 2, he played an astonishing 95% of Las Vegas' defensive snaps and posted career-high numbers with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles. His efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection for the third consecutive year.
One testament to Crosby's exceptional work ethic and prowess came from Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan. "When you talk about Maxx Crosby, you're talking about the best defensive player in the league, probably in history, that I've ever seen. Now, I've only been around it 30 years, but I mean, he's that good," said Ryan. Such high praise from a seasoned veteran underscores the impact Crosby has had on the field.
The recent "Sack Summit" at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, highlighted another aspect of Crosby's commitment to excellence. Co-hosted by Von Miller and Cameron Jordan, the event drew defensive linemen from across the league to share techniques and strategies. Crosby's presence there was more than just participatory; it was influential. Von Miller praised Crosby's evolution, stating, "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 comment not only reflects Crosby's standing among his peers but also suggests a significant future role for him in the summit. "I don't know how many years I got left, but Maxx, he's going to play another 10," Miller added, cementing Crosby's status as a rising star with longevity.
Crosby himself remains introspective about his journey and the path he has forged. Reflecting on his season, he revealed the challenges he faced in adjusting his practice routines due to his injuries. "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 shared. His ability to adapt and persevere, despite the physical toll, speaks volumes about his grit and tenacity.
The January surgeries marked a turning point, allowing Crosby to reset and focus on recovery. He began his personal recovery program on Jan. 22, aiming to return stronger. "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 remarked. This reflective statement captures Crosby's mindset—versatile and determined to navigate any obstacle in his pursuit of excellence.
Raiders' recent coaching changes and organizational shifts have seen Crosby remain a constant force. He is one of only two players still on the roster who played with the team in Oakland, demonstrating not just his physical prowess but also his loyalty and significance to the franchise. Since 2019, the Raiders have had four coaches—Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce—and a 39-44 record with one playoff appearance. Despite the turbulence, Crosby's contributions have been a beacon of consistency.
Recognizing his value, the Raiders awarded Crosby a $6 million raise in the offseason without extending his contract. This move came on the heels of a significant four-year extension worth $95 million, with over $53 million guaranteed, signed in March 2022. Such financial commitments reflect the team's confidence in Crosby's ability to impact the game profoundly for years to come.
Looking ahead, the Raiders have introduced Thayer Munford as their new starting right tackle, a change that head coach Antonio Pierce hopes will bolster the team's development. "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team," Pierce commented, indicating a strategic move to solidify the team's lineup.
For Crosby, every challenge and setback has been an opportunity for growth. "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 stated. His unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of greatness continue to set him apart, marking him as not just a key player for the Raiders but as one of the premier defenders in the NFL today.