The Las Vegas Raiders have been plunged into a potential internal crisis after their superstar defensive end, Maxx Crosby, reportedly walked out of the team's training facility on Friday.
A Clash Over Playing Time
According to reports from Fox Sports, the 28-year-old pass rusher was informed of the team's decision to shut him down for their final two games of the season against the New York Giants and Kansas City Chiefs. Crosby, who has battled a persistent knee injury since October, vehemently disagreed with the call and left the facility.
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport added context, stating that Crosby had been 'fighting to play' in Sunday's crucial matchup against the Giants. This clash of wills between the player's competitive drive and the team's medical and strategic planning lies at the heart of the dispute.
High Stakes for the Silver and Black
The decision to bench Crosby comes as the 2-13 Raiders prepare for a high-stakes contest. This Sunday's game against the 2-13 New York Giants is effectively a 'battle for the bottom', with the loser likely securing the coveted No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Crosby's feelings on the matter of draft positioning are already a matter of public record. After a recent defeat, when asked about the potential for the top pick, he told reporters: 'Yeah, I don't give a s*** about the pick. I don't play for that. My job is to be the best defensive end in the world.' He emphasised his role is centred on performance and leadership.
Crosby's Legacy and Team's Investment
The four-time Pro Bowler has been the heartbeat of the Raiders' defence for seven seasons. He holds the franchise record for tackles for loss with 133. Despite his injury-plagued season, he has still managed an impressive 10 sacks and 73 combined tackles in 2024.
The Raiders have a monumental investment in Crosby, having signed him to a massive three-year, $106.5 million contract extension in March, which ties him to the franchise through the 2029 season. This incident therefore represents a significant fracture between the team and its highest-profile player.
This news compounds a difficult period for the Raiders, coming just days after they confirmed that their primary offensive weapon, Pro Bowl tight end Brock Bowers, has been placed on season-ending injured reserve. The 23-year-old, who leads the team in receptions (64) and yards (680), has also been struggling with a knee injury since Week 1.
The fallout from Crosby's dramatic exit and the resolution of this standoff will be closely watched as the Raiders' disappointing season draws to a close.
