Maxx Crosby's Path to Greatness: Overcoming Adversity and Leading by Example
Maxx Crosby's ascension among the NFL's elite defensive players is a tale of resilience, tenacity, and unparalleled work ethic. The Raiders' defensive stalwart recently co-hosted the prestigious "Sack Summit" at UNLV alongside renowned pass rushers Von Miller and Cameron Jordan. This summit has become a hallmark event where defensive linemen gather to share techniques and strategies, underscoring Crosby’s emerging role as a leader in the league.
From the outset, Von Miller recognized Crosby's potential and contributions to the 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," Miller commented. "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."
Despite his rise, Crosby’s journey has been laden with physical challenges. Last season, he played through significant injuries to his left knee and thumb, both requiring surgical intervention in January. The injury to his knee occurred in Week 2, but Crosby's grit shone through as he participated in 95% of Las Vegas’ defensive snaps over the season. This relentless effort was reflected in his career-high numbers: 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles, which earned him a second-team All-Pro nod and his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
"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 revealed. His commitment to improving his craft is further evidenced by the notebook he keeps, filled with strategies and techniques discussed at the summit.
In the offseason, Crosby’s dedication to his recovery and training is no less intense. Beginning his recovery program on January 22nd, he has undertaken a rigorous schedule akin to that of an elite athlete in a year-round training camp. "You talk about fight camps [lasting] maybe three months, four months; I do it 365 [days]. So that's why I feel, 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 stated.
His relentless pursuit of excellence is acknowledged by those around him. Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan, a seasoned football veteran with 30 years of experience, is effusive in his praise. "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," Ryan said. "Now, I've only been around it 30 years, but I mean, he's that good."
Crosby’s leadership is set to be crucial as the Raiders navigate another season. He is one of only two players remaining on the roster who played for the team while it was still based in Oakland, embodying continuity and resilience amidst the organization’s flux. Since 2019, the Raiders have experienced significant changes, including four head coaching shifts—from Jon Gruden to Rich Bisaccia, and most recently, from Josh McDaniels to Antonio Pierce.
Despite the team's 39-44 record and single playoff appearance since 2019, Crosby remains a cornerstone. His contributions were further cemented by a substantial financial endorsement this offseason—a $6 million raise without a contract extension. Crosby had previously secured his tenure with the Raiders through a four-year extension worth $95 million, inclusive of over $53 million guaranteed, signed in March 2022.
Adding to the narrative of change and potential within the team, Thayer Munford’s recent appointment as the starting right tackle illustrates the Raiders’ commitment to refreshing their lineup. Coach Antonio Pierce expressed optimism about Munford’s impact: "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team."
For Crosby, the offseason has been about forging ahead, undeterred by past injuries or challenges. "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," Crosby declared.
With his indomitable spirit and relentless focus, Maxx Crosby’s journey is a testament to his drive to be the best—an ambition that resonates not just within the Raiders' organization but across the entire NFL landscape.