Maxx Crosby’s Relentless Drive Continues to Anchor Raiders’ Defense - Even on One Good Knee
If there’s a heartbeat to the Las Vegas Raiders' defense, it’s Maxx Crosby - and this past Sunday was another reminder of just how much he means to that unit. Despite dealing with a nagging knee injury, the All-Pro edge rusher once again suited up and played every single defensive snap in the Raiders’ Week 14 loss to the Denver Broncos.
That’s 100 percent of the reps, while clearly laboring through discomfort. And yet, Crosby still managed to rack up four tackles (two solo) and notch a sack.
That’s not just tough - that’s elite-level grit.
Crosby’s name has been a staple on the injury report lately, but you wouldn’t know it from the way he plays. There were no signs of hesitation in his pass rush, no drop-off in effort. Whether it was chasing down Russell Wilson or setting the edge against the run, Crosby was everywhere - limping at times, sure, but never letting up.
And that’s been the story of his season.
The Ironman of the Silver and Black
This isn’t a one-off performance. Crosby has been battling through injuries for much of the year, and yet he hasn’t missed a game.
Not one. In a league where availability is often the most underrated ability, Crosby has become the Raiders’ version of an ironman - a cornerstone player who refuses to come off the field, regardless of what his body is telling him.
Now, as the Raiders prepare for a high-stakes Week 15 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, all eyes are on Crosby’s status. The team continues to monitor his knee, but early signs point to him doing everything in his power to suit up again - even if he doesn’t log a single practice rep during the week.
That’s not just a reflection of Crosby’s toughness; it’s a testament to how vital he is to everything the Raiders want to do defensively. He’s their tone-setter, their emotional leader, and their most consistent disruptor in the trenches.
According to team sources, there’s confidence that Crosby could be cleared to play without practicing - a rare level of trust that speaks volumes about his preparation and football IQ. When you’ve got a guy who knows the scheme inside and out, and who plays with that kind of motor, you give him every chance to play on Sunday.
A Balancing Act for the Raiders
Still, there’s a fine line between toughness and risk. Crosby’s warrior mentality is what makes him special, but the Raiders also have to think long-term.
He’s the face of their defense - a franchise player whose value goes beyond the box score. And while fans love seeing their stars gut it out, the wear and tear of playing through injury can add up fast.
That’s the delicate balance the Raiders are trying to strike right now. They need Crosby on the field, especially in a late-season stretch where every game matters. But they also can’t afford to let his competitive fire turn into something that puts his future at risk.
Other Notes from Raiders Practice
There were a few other developments during Tuesday’s practice window. Offensive tackle Kolton Miller was back on the field, a promising sign for a unit that’s been banged up. Quarterback Kenny Pickett was also taking first-team reps, suggesting he could be trending toward a return.
As for Crosby - he wasn’t spotted during the media viewing portion of practice. But don’t read too much into that just yet.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned about No. 98, it’s that he doesn’t need much runway to get himself ready. Whether it’s a walkthrough or full-speed reps, Crosby finds a way.
And if he’s physically able, you can bet he’ll be out there Sunday, helmet on, ready to lead the charge - even if it’s on one good leg.
Because that’s just who Maxx Crosby is.