Las Vegas Raiders’ star edge rusher Maxx Crosby is set to make a remarkable return to the field against the Minnesota Vikings, overcoming significant health challenges. Crosby, who recently battled a knee injury and a hospital stay due to an infection, is determined to continue his impressive performance this season.
Despite being listed as doubtful ahead of Week 12’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Crosby’s resilience was on full display. He managed to play 48 snaps, a season-low for him, yet still achieved a notable sack of Patrick Mahomes. This tenacity is a testament to Crosby’s commitment to his team, as he played at what he estimates was about 60 percent of his capacity.
After missing practices on Wednesday and Thursday following the bye week, Crosby revealed in an interview on The Insiders on NFL+ that he is planning to practice on Friday and aims to be fully ready for Sunday’s game. His optimistic outlook reflects his dedication, as he stated, “If I’m able and have a heartbeat, I’m going to be out there with my brothers and try to go get a win.”
Crosby’s performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. He is currently tied for sixth in the NFL with 11.5 sacks and has accumulated 50 quarterback pressures, according to Next Gen Stats. Notably, Crosby, along with Micah Parsons and Danielle Hunter, is among the few edge rushers to have achieved three-plus sacks while facing a double team in 2023.
The Raider’s edge rusher’s consistency is also remarkable. Crosby has recorded at least one sack in each of his last two games and has amassed a total of 5.0 sacks in his last four. His total of 11.5 sacks this year, following 12.5 in 2022, makes him the first Raiders player to record 10-plus sacks in consecutive seasons since Khalil Mack in 2015-2017. He is on the brink of tying the team’s record for the longest streak of 12-plus sack seasons.
As the Raiders prepare to face the Vikings, Crosby’s return adds a significant boost to their defense. His story of overcoming adversity and maintaining high-level performance is inspiring and will undoubtedly be a key factor in their upcoming matchup.
