Maxx Crosby, defensive end for the Raiders, has made a full return to the field in 2024 after missing games due to an ankle injury that required surgery in December 2023. Known for his relentless play, Crosby endured an intense five-month rehabilitation and training program to regain full strength and perform without hesitation. His comeback reflects determination amid one of the toughest periods of his career.
Hard Work and Rehabilitation Define Crosby’s Journey Back
Crosby began rehab immediately after his surgery in December, effectively foregoing the offseason to focus on recovery. He described this period as
“five months of hardcore training and rehabbing every single day,”
highlighting the sacrifices made to reach a higher level of fitness and readiness. This commitment underlines Crosby’s refusal to let injury dictate his performance.
“It’s amazing. I mean I feel like a little kid out there, you know what I mean? I miss it,”
Crosby shared, emphasizing his eagerness to return.
The rehab literally started in December, I literally didn’t have an offseason, I’ve been here the whole time. It’s been five months of hardcore training and rehabbing every single day, and sacrificing even more [to see] how can I go to an even higher level.”
—Maxx Crosby, Raiders Defensive End
Facing One of the Most Challenging Years in His Career
The 2023 season tested Crosby in unprecedented ways, as injuries and personal struggles disrupted his usual consistency. For the first time in his professional life, Crosby felt hindered, likening his physical state early last season to being “on a popped tire.” This metaphor reflected his frustration at not being able to contribute fully despite his efforts to support his team.
“Last year was definitely one of the hardest years of my life in general — so many things going on, battling injuries, not being able to be myself at times, I felt like,”
Crosby noted candidly.
“There’s no excuses. It’s just tough. It’s part of the game, and that’s what comes with it. And that’s the first time in my career I felt like, like Week 2 I’m on a popped tire, and it’s just I’m doing everything in my power to try to go out there and help my teammates, and at times I feel like it just wasn’t the same.”
—Maxx Crosby, Raiders Defensive End
Playing Without Limits: Crosby’s Confident Return
Now fully healed, Crosby has returned to practice and gameplay without reservations, embracing his role with renewed passion. He attributes his mindset shift to believing that all past difficulties will eventually form a meaningful part of his journey. Crosby embraces the freedom to cut and play aggressively, describing the joy of being “100 percent and no hesitation.”
“I feel like everything happens for a reason, I feel like I’m going to look back years from now and it’s going to all make sense,”
Crosby said.
“It’s just been incredible being out there with my teammates, just being able to fully be myself, not hesitate on any type of cut, just cut it loose. It’s the best feeling on the planet, I’m having so much fun out here, just being 100 percent and no hesitation.”
—Maxx Crosby, Raiders Defensive End
Additional NFL Updates from Other Teams
Meanwhile, other NFL teams have notable developments heading into the 2024 season. Broncos wide receiver Marvin Mims improved significantly this year, increasing his receptions and touchdowns under GM George Paton’s observation. Paton praised Mims’ growth, noting a boost in confidence and a broader role in the offense.
At the Chiefs, rookie defensive end Ashton Gillotte has benefited from mentorship by current DE George Karlaftis, connected through the Louisville coaching staff and sharing film sessions before the draft. This relationship has helped refine Gillotte’s pass-rushing skills.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes also shared thoughts on flag football’s role in the Olympics, expressing he will likely leave the spotlight to younger players by the 2028 Games due to his age then.
Why Crosby’s Return Matters for the Raiders’ 2024 Season
Maxx Crosby’s comeback is crucial for the Raiders as they look to strengthen their defense in 2024. His perseverance through injury and disciplined recovery signal his importance to the team’s success. Crosby’s ability to return fully healthy and perform without hesitation may inspire teammates and enhance the Raiders’ competitive edge in a challenging NFL landscape.