Las Vegas Raiders star edge-rusher Maxx Crosby has been assembling an impressive resume five years into his NFL career. However, that elusive First Team All-Pro designation continues to evade No. 98. Is 2024 the year he finally breaks through?
Ever since Crosby’s memorable rookie campaign (10 sacks, 16 tackles for a loss, and four forced fumbles), the Eastern Michigan disciple has been on a tear. The three-time Pro Bowler is easily the face of the franchise now—general manager Tom Telesco reaffirmed that notion with his recent contract restructuring.
The accolades are also piling up; Crosby has seen 2nd and 1st team designations from Pro Football Focus, Sporting News, and the Pro Football Writers of America. The one honor that’s not been bestowed upon “The Condor” is the AP’s 1st Team. He’s been in the Top 10 for sacks in the entire league the last two seasons, with 12.5 and 14.5, respectively. PFF has consistently graded him near the top of all defensive categories. For example, he’s had a grade of 90.0 or better each of the last three years.
Missing out on the elusive title of First Team All-Pro isn’t due to a lack of effort. The numbers speak for themselves at this point. Recently, Bleacher Report validated this idea, identifying Crosby as one of six league players poised to take that next step.
“With more financial security and a strong offseason under his belt, Crosby will be in the running to lead the league in sacks and finally break through as a first-team All-Pro superstar.”
Adding Christian Wilkins could lead to a special year from Maxx Crosby
Despite playing at a consistently high level, Crosby has largely done everything on his own. 2023 marked a turning point, however. The emergence of Malcolm Koonce, opposite Crosby, has given the Raiders a potential lethal duo in the edge position. Missing a true disruptive force inside has also hindered Crosby. Well, the Raiders finally addressed that when they splurged on free agency, signing Christian Wilkins to a four-year contract.
With nine sacks (and 30 pressures, according to Pro Football Reference) to his credit last season in Miami, Wilkins could end up becoming the difference-maker that helps Crosby reach that next plateau—perhaps he’ll finally get the respect that many refuse to give him.
Thoughts, Raider Nation? Is this the year that Maxx Crosby gets that elite award?
*Top Photo: Getty Images
