They say adversity shapes character. But for Maxx Crosby? It’s not just a cliché statement. For him, it’s a way of life! With the Raiders navigating a stormy 2-10 season, Crosby’s fire burns brighter than ever. And it’s not just on the field but off it. His impact? As monumental as his relentless pass rush!

When Kentucky’s offensive coordinator Liam Coen laid it out on Twitter—“Our goal this week is how to play longer and harder than [Maxx Crosby],” he wasn’t exaggerating. Crosby’s “doesn’t stop ever” attitude epitomizes the elite-level threat he poses in every game, regardless of the Raiders’ record.

He’s not just a player; he’s a storm teams scramble to weather.  

But Crosby’s brilliance is more than just numbers. It’s in the moments he creates on the field and the respect he commands, even from rivals like Patrick Mahomes. Speaking about their heated yet playful trash talk, Crosby candidly shared, “Pat looks at me and says, ‘That was a good rush,’ or ‘That would’ve been a touchdown if you weren’t there.’” The banter may get colorful—“It’s either rated R or mutual respect,” Crosby laughed—but it underscores a mutual acknowledgment of greatness.  

Amid the Raiders’ struggles, Crosby remains a beacon of consistency. Proving his mettle yet again, he currently leads the NFL in tackles for loss with 16 and has racked up 7.5 sacks despite battling injuries. It’s no wonder opponents game-plan around him, and teammates lean on him for leadership.  

Crosby’s own words reveal the toll the season has taken on him. “Of course, I’m competitive as they come…There were points where I felt like I was losing my mind. I had to really reset.” Yet, his resolve remains unshaken, his ethos clear. “The best version of me is not just being a great player but a great leader.”  

Crosby’s off-field impact: a Man of the Year Nominee who walks the talk  

Crosby’s victories off the field are countless. Forget the on-field struggles for a while! As the team’s nominee for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, Crosby’s contributions transcend football. Just so you know, the nomination recognizes players who excel in their communities. And Crosby’s track record speaks volumes!

This year alone, Crosby has hosted five Make-A-Wish kids and their families, offering exclusive pre-game experiences and sideline passes. He donated $1 million to his alma mater, Eastern Michigan University, fueling opportunities for student-athletes. His Play Football Skills Camp for children aged 6-13 exemplifies his belief in nurturing the next generation.  

Crosby summed it up best, “I feel like I’m here for a reason… I can fall into the trap and be negative, or I can be a leader.” Crosby’s refusal to back down, even amid an eight-game losing streak, defines his legacy. He missed his first-ever game this season due to injury but has since played every defensive snap across six games—a streak unmatched by any defensive lineman since 2016. His tireless spirit is both a curse and a blessing on a team struggling to find its rhythm.  

Owner Mark Davis’ unequivocal statement, “We’re not trading Maxx Crosby. Before or after the trade deadline!” was a moment of clarity for Raiders fans. Yet, Crosby doesn’t let the weight of losses crush him. “It sucks,” he admits. “But I’m going to be the best version of me every single day.”

Whether it’s Crosby’s unmatched presence on the field that leaves QBs scrambling. Or if it is his relentless work off it, Crosby is redefining what it means to be a leader. For a Raiders team enduring a tough season, Crosby is the unwavering pulse, the player who refuses to quit—even when the odds are stacked high.