Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby continues to make waves at training camp in Henderson. The Pro Bowl pass rusher has been receiving much praise this week. However, we should keep that in perspective.
This is the time of year when Raiders fans are eating up all the content they can get their hands on. That’s especially true for outlets blowing smoke up the organization’s rear end. Yes, no one is debating that Crosby is a special talent. In fact, with Chandler Jones opposite of him, we can expect all of those pressures that Crosby racks up to be converted into full-blown sacks. Be that as it may, there’s been much ado regarding Crosby’s performance in camp; more specifically, his being called “unblockable.”
One example is Tashan Reed’s recent quote via The Athletic.
“Speaking of Crosby, he’s been seemingly unblockable during training camp. He’s been lined up mostly as a defensive end but has also taken snaps at outside linebacker. He looks every bit like an elite edge rusher, which has meant trial by fire for the offensive linemen.”
You also have ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez echoing a similar sentiment recently.
“Maxx Crosby dominated the Raiders’ fully padded practice on Tuesday, much to the chagrin of the offensive line and to the delight of the assembled fans.”
Maxx Crosby is exposing the Raiders’ problem at right tackle
Brandon Parker was dominated in last week’s matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. While he played left tackle, Parker has been taking reps on the right side along with last year’s first-round pick, Alex Leatherwood. The fact that Crosby is consistently shredding the O-line should be another red flag regarding the current situation. The Raiders desperately need an upgrade. Whether it’s Daryl Williams or any of the other options currently available, not named Parker or Leatherwood, it’s noteworthy that Crosby is flourishing under Patrick Graham, but let’s make sure we’re not moving away from the real issue.
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*Top Photo: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports