The conversation shifted when head coach Antonio Pierce ruled out defensive end Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports that Crosby is listed as questionable rather than out versus the Cleveland Browns, as Pierce initially stated. The Raiders will also be without their all-star wide receiver, Davante Adams, so this becomes extremely important.
From a defensive standpoint, Crosby has been invaluable for Las Vegas. In addition to five tackles for loss, he has three sacks and two pass deflections. With 28 tackles for loss since the 2023 season, Crosby also leads the NFL in this category. The Raiders are out for revenge against the Browns after a humiliating loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Considering that Crosby was in risk of missing his first-ever game, the news is also unexpected. The fact that he was declared out on Thursday indicates that the Raiders either really need him or he is willing to play through.
To what extent does Maxx Crosby matter to the Raiders?
Maxim Crosby was upgraded to doubtful before the Browns game.
© Images by Stephen R. Sylvanie
The foundation of the Raiders defense is Crosby. He not only has the data to support it, but his mindset does as well. The three-time professional bowler exudes a contagious enthusiasm that all are drawn to. A high-ankle sprain he suffered during the Week 3 loss was minimized by Crosby. The Raiders will need all the support they can get as he prepares to potentially play.
Additionally sidelined for the Raiders are OT Thayer Munford (knee/ankle), TE Michael Mayer (personal), and LB Divine Deablo (oblique). In addition to the roster of injured players, Pierce announced that the team was making “business decisions.” A roster that is performing poorly combined with injuries spells calamity.
In any case, the Raiders can defeat the Browns and record their second victory of the year. In addition to struggling with injuries, Cleveland is also dealing with a subpar quarterback in Deshaun Watson. Despite his injuries, Crosby might be in for a spectacular performance if he suits up.
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