Maxx Crosby, a standout defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, is expected to undergo knee surgery that will sideline him into the offseason. According to ESPN, the Raiders have placed Crosby on injured reserve as they prioritize his recovery ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This decision comes shortly after the team also placed Pro Bowl tight end Brock Bowers on injured reserve due to his own injury.
Crosby’s injury, initially sustained on October 19, 2025, during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs, has limited his participation in practice for much of the season. An MRI conducted earlier this week revealed that the injury had not healed adequately, raising concerns about potential long-term effects if not treated promptly.
The Raiders issued a statement confirming Crosby’s placement on the Reserve/Injured list, emphasizing that the decision was made after extensive consultations with top medical professionals. “Maxx is the ultimate warrior,” the statement read. “He has fought extremely hard to compete each week with his teammates since injuring his knee mid-season. We are grateful for his extraordinary contributions. He is a true Raider on and off the field — we look forward to his leadership and toughness into 2026 and beyond.”
Crosby has been known for his tenacity and commitment to the game, trying to play through the pain despite the injury. Raiders head coach Pete Carroll expressed his admiration for Crosby’s determination, noting that the evaluation of his condition indicated that surgery was the best option. “Each week, he has done everything you could possibly imagine a guy could do to play,” Carroll remarked. “But after an evaluation, it just looks too bad.”
The decision to shut down Crosby mirrors the team’s approach with Bowers, who has been dealing with a PCL injury and bone bruise since the start of the season. While Bowers will not require surgery, the Raiders are taking a cautious approach with their top players as they head into the final weeks of the season.
Crosby expressed disappointment at being sidelined, stating earlier in the week that he was focused on his performance and leadership rather than the team’s draft position. “I don’t give a s— about the pick. My job is to be the best defensive end in the world,” he said. “That’s what I focus on every day.”
As the Raiders prepare to face the New York Giants in a crucial game that could impact the upcoming NFL Draft, they remain optimistic about the health of their other key players. Quarterback Geno Smith, running back Ashton Jeanty, and wide receiver Tre Tucker are all expected to play on Sunday.
This matchup against the Giants holds significant implications, as the loser will likely be in a stronger position for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft. The outcome could shift the trajectory for both teams as they look to rebuild for the future.
In summary, the Raiders’ decision to place Crosby on injured reserve is a strategic move aimed at safeguarding their star player’s long-term health while navigating a challenging season. As they look forward to the future, the team remains focused on maximizing its potential both on and off the field.
