Maxx Crosby and Patrick Mahomes may spend Sundays trying to wreck each other’s plans, but the Raiders star says the relationship is built on real respect when the pads come off.
Crosby laid it out on Bussin’ With The Boys, talking about how the rivalry feels on and off the field. He made it clear the two of them go at it like enemies once the game starts, but the tone changes fast afterward.
“Me and Pat. Like you’re going against them.
You know what time it is? This war.
It’s the most respect off the field compared to anybody,” Crosby said. “I’ll tell you, like Andy Reid will (expletive) randomly shoot me a call in the offseason.
‘Man, I’m praying for your family. Hope everything’s well.’
Those guys that really are that dude. They’re that guy, and then they’re still barking after the game.
“But like Pat Mahomes, like we go to war. He knows I’m trying to murder him, and that (expletive) is trying to make me look stupid every time.
But off the field, it’s love every time. When you’re willing to go to that length to have success and a guy that’s gonna compete like that, there’s like that mutual respect.
It’s like in the fight game.”
That same competitive edge showed up in a recent text exchange between the two. Crosby said he noticed Mahomes working out and throwing the ball after both players landed on injured reserve, and he sent a short message: “We’ll see you soon,” he wrote.
Mahomes answered right back: “We’re back, can’t wait to see you,” the quarterback responded.
Crosby said the exchange was cool and respectful, which fits the way he sees this matchup. He compared it to combat sports, where the best rivals push each other and still recognize what the other guy brings.
The on-field history backs that up. Crosby has sacked Mahomes multiple times over the years, and their meetings have a habit of turning into viral moments. Neither player eases up when they line up across from each other.
Both are expected to be ready for Week 1, and Crosby said the rivalry will keep its usual edge. He still wants to ruin Mahomes’ day every chance he gets, and he isn’t shy about going full throttle against the three-time Super Bowl champion.
The AFC West has plenty of talent again this season, and Crosby said the Raiders want to close the gap. He remains the centerpiece of the Raiders’ defense, with his production and leadership still carrying real weight.
When these two meet again, the drama should be there waiting.
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