When Von Miller, a seasoned NFL linebacker, started the "Sack Summit," its primary purpose was to bring together the league's premier defensive linemen to share techniques and strategies. Co-hosting the recent event with Miller at UNLV were Cameron Jordan and Maxx Crosby, a rising star in the NFL known for his relentless work ethic and dedication to improving his game.
### Maxx Crosby: The Next Generation of Defensive Stars
Maxx Crosby's journey to becoming one of the NFL's best pass rushers is marked by sheer determination and resilience. Despite battling injuries last season, Crosby showcased his grit on the field. Playing through significant injuries to his left knee and thumb, both of which required surgeries in January, Crosby's commitment was unwavering. Remarkably, he participated in 95% of the Las Vegas Raiders' defensive snaps, sustaining his tenacity from Week 2 onwards.
"I was damn near limited every single day, the whole season in practice," Crosby reminisced. "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’s perseverance paid off. He posted career-high statistics with 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles, solidifying his place as a formidable force on the field. His efforts were recognized with a second-team All-Pro selection and his third consecutive Pro Bowl nod, accolades that cemented his status among the elite in the sport.
### The Value of Experience and Leadership
Behind every great player is a team of mentors and coaches who help shape their journey. For Crosby, Raiders' senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan has been a significant influence. With 30 years of football experience, Ryan’s praise of Crosby is nothing short of monumental. "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."
Coming off an intense season, Crosby began his recovery program on January 22, focusing on bouncing back stronger than ever. His dedication is evident not just in his on-field performance but also in his relentless training regimen. "You talk about fight camps [lasting] maybe three months, four months; I do it 365 [days]. So that's why I feel like, 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," Crosby explained.
### The Road Ahead
Crosby's recent offseason saw him receiving a $6 million raise without extending his contract, a testament to his value to the Raiders. Having signed a four-year extension worth $95 million in March 2022, with over $53 million guaranteed, Crosby's future with the team looks promising. His determination to be the best is unyielding. "My one goal is to be the best in the world, pound for pound ... 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," he said.
Heading into the new season, the Raiders' roster also sees new additions and rising talent. Thayer Munford has taken over as the new starting right tackle, an essential piece in ensuring the effectiveness of the team's defense. Raiders coach Antonio Pierce expressed confidence in Munford's potential, hoping his development would contribute positively to the team's dynamics. "Hopefully that speeds up the development and growth with [Munford], and makes us a better team," Pierce noted.
### A Legacy in the Making
Maxx Crosby remains one of just two Raiders still on the roster who played with the team during its Oakland days. His journey, both challenging and inspiring, serves as a beacon for aspiring athletes. With the Raiders having gone through four coaches since 2019, including Jon Gruden, Rich Bisaccia, Josh McDaniels, and Antonio Pierce, the team has faced its share of ups and downs, recording a 39-44 record with one playoff appearance. Despite these fluctuations, Crosby has remained a constant, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his craft and his team.
The Sack Summit, with its collaborative environment, is a testament to the camaraderie and shared knowledge that defines the league's best. Von Miller, recognizing Crosby’s exponential growth, aptly stated, "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. 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."
As the Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, they do so with confidence, knowing they have a cornerstone in Maxx Crosby. His journey underscores the essence of resilience, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities that bode well for both him and the future of the Raiders.