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The Las Vegas Raiders defended their decision to place Maxx Crosby on injured reserve to end the defensive end’s season as drama bubbled over his reaction and the team’s upcoming game against the New York Giants.
The Raiders placed Crosby on IR, which FOX Sports reported led to him leaving the team’s practice complex.
The Raiders wanted to shut down the star defensive end for the team’s final two games of the regular season, but Crosby “strongly disagreed” with the idea and left.
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Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) reacts during the second half at SoFi Stadium on Nov. 30, 2025. (Kiyoshi Mio/Imagn Images)
On Saturday, the Raiders said their decision was best for both the team and Crosby.
“We have made the decision to place Maxx Crosby on the reserve/injured list for the remainder of the 2025 season,” the team said. “After deliberate and thorough consultation with several top medical professionals, it became clear that this decision is in the best interest of both the franchise and the player. Maxx is the ultimate warrior and has fought extremely hard to compete every week with his teammates since injuring his knee mid-season.
“We are grateful for his extraordinary contributions. He is a true Raider on and off the field – we look forward to his leadership and toughness into 2026 and beyond.”
Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Jonah Laulu (96) and defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) celebrate during the second half against the Houston Texans on Dec. 21, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
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The Raiders and Giants meet in what will likely decide who gets the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Both teams are 2-13 this season.
Crosby was asked about the possibility of getting the top pick, but didn’t seem really concerned.
“I don’t play for that. My job is to be the best defensive end in the world,” Crosby told reporters Tuesday.
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“That’s what I focus on every day. And being a good leader. And being an influence. And being that guy on a consistent basis for my team. The front office, the coaches, they do that. But that has nothing to do with me. I’ve learned that lesson before. You can’t control everything. That’s not my job description. My job is to be the best in the world.”
