Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby will undergo ankle surgery and miss the remainder of the season, adding to the team’s growing list of injuries that have plagued their campaign.
The Raiders, currently on a nine-game losing streak with a 2-11 record, are missing nearly half of the defense that was expected to start the season. They will host the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night.
In a statement on social media, Crosby expressed his determination despite the setback. “I can feel bad for myself and make excuses, but I refuse,” he wrote. “I will get this surgery and be on a war path for greatness every day, and be back as the best version of myself. I truly believe in my soul that I’m changing the game one snap at a time and changing the way this position is viewed.”
Crosby’s injury marks the latest blow to a defense that has already suffered significant losses. As a key leader in the locker room, he has consistently set an example on the field, having played four consecutive seasons without missing a game until this year. He has dealt with ankle issues since late last season and sustained another injury on September 15 against Baltimore, causing him to miss a game against the Cleveland Browns.
“I have absolutely zero regrets with my process, my approach, and my discipline to this game,” Crosby stated. “Instead of sitting out for over a month with my first high ankle sprain against Baltimore, I only missed one game and came back and fought all year because that’s who I am.” This season, he recorded 7.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss, putting him just half a sack away from becoming the third Raiders player since at least 1982 to reach 60 career sacks. However, he will now have to wait until next season to pursue that milestone after getting injured last week against Tampa Bay.
“As much as it pains me not to go to war with my brothers and for the fans, I truly believe everything happens for a reason,” Crosby added.
In other team news, quarterback Aidan O’Connell is questionable for Monday’s game due to a bruised left knee. He has not practiced in the last three days, although coach Antonio Pierce remains hopeful that he will play. If O’Connell cannot start, the Raiders will likely turn to Desmond Ridder, who previously started 13 games for the Falcons last season.
Additionally, cornerback Nate Hobbs, who has been sidelined since November 3 with an ankle injury, participated fully in practice and did not receive an injury designation. Defensive tackle Adam Butler is questionable due to a concussion, while cornerback Sam Webb is doubtful with a back injury.
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