Maxx Crosby: Football is Everything to Me - NBC Sports
When it comes to the world of professional football, few players embody dedication like Maxx Crosby of the Raiders. Recently, his situation has sparked considerable discussion, particularly after he was informed that he would be sidelined for the season's final two games—a decision that evidently did not sit well with him. On a recent episode of SiriusXM’s Let’s Go! podcast, Crosby took the opportunity to express his feelings directly.
It was abundantly clear that Crosby has an unwavering passion for the sport. "From the moment I started playing, my love for football has been undeniable," he shared with Jim Gray. "Sports have been my entire life, and I’ve been obsessed with them since I was a child. My commitment runs deep; you could say I have an addictive personality when it comes to this game."
Crosby elaborated on his belief in certain fundamental principles that should guide how the game is played. "For me, there are core values that must be upheld. You approach the field with a mindset geared toward victory—not just for yourself but for your teammates as well. You give everything you have, regardless of the challenges. Injuries and setbacks are simply part of the journey."
He acknowledged the fleeting nature of a football career, expressing, "I never want to look back on my career and think about what I could have done differently. I’m fully committed, and those who are around me daily can attest to my dedication. Some might say I operate at a heightened intensity, and they wouldn’t be wrong. However, what truly matters are the authentic relationships I build and the example I set through my actions, not just my words. When you can demonstrate to your teammates what hard work looks like, it speaks volumes. I genuinely love this game—it's my life."
At 28 years old, Crosby has spent his entire NFL career with the Raiders. His comments regarding the way the game should be played may hint at dissatisfaction with the organization’s decision to hold him back from playing, though that specific issue wasn’t addressed during the podcast.
Another pressing topic that also went unmentioned is whether Crosby is contemplating a future away from the Raiders. Given his strong opposition to the team’s choice to bench him due to a persistent knee injury, this question looms large. Has the organization damaged the rapport between them? Might he request a trade?
In an age where athletes have unprecedented access to their fan base, it’s essential for them to confront these difficult discussions head-on. For Crosby, the burning question remains: has the team’s decision to restrict him from playing at a crucial time affected his feelings toward the franchise? What do you think? Should athletes openly discuss their frustrations with management? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
