The Las Vegas Raiders may have had a tough season, but there's no denying they have some standout talent to build on. Pro Football Focus recently highlighted two key players from the Raiders in their "Top 101 Players from 2025" list, showcasing the potential that new head coach Klint Kubiak has at his disposal.
Let's dive into what makes these two players so special.
First up is Maxx Crosby, the relentless pass rusher who's become synonymous with the Raiders' defense. Despite swirling rumors about potential trades, it's hard to imagine the Raiders parting ways with Crosby.
His ability to pressure quarterbacks is unmatched, and even with a late-season benching, he managed to rank 14th in PFF's overall grades for his position. With 53 quarterback pressures, Crosby tied for 20th among edge defenders, proving he's still a force to be reckoned with.
Then there's Brock Bowers, the dynamic tight end who, despite a dip in production, remains a crucial piece of the Raiders' offensive puzzle. His second season saw some challenges, including playing with quarterback Geno Smith and dealing with injuries. Yet, Bowers' talent shone through, earning him an impressive 82.2 PFF receiving grade and ranking him seventh among tight ends with a 1.70 yards per route run average.
As Kubiak takes the reins, Bowers is expected to play a central role in the offense. If he stays healthy, there's every reason to believe he'll return to his All-Pro form.
PFF ranked him at No. 73, while Crosby came in slightly higher at No. 69.
These rankings highlight the potential for the Raiders to turn things around. With Crosby and Bowers leading the charge, the foundation is set for a promising future.