It didn’t take long for Maxx Crosby to make an impression on Raiders defensive coordinator Paul Guenther. His eyes lit up when making an unconventional comparison between the rookie defensive end from Eastern Michigan and a Motor City, Michigan classic.
“Maxx, he looks like a Cadillac coming off the edge. He’s long. He’s loose. He’s quick off the ball, and I think he’s going to make a big jump in this first year,” Guenther told reporters at Raiders Organized Team Activities on Tuesday.
Raiders general manager Mike Mayock said on draft day that Crosby must add strength to his 6-foot-5, 255-pound frame. But according to Guenther, Crosby has natural gifts to go with any power he gains through training. The coach didn’t hesitate to predict early results for the rookie, either.
The Raiders drafted another defensive end with their first-round pick in Clelin Ferrell, but Crosby, a fourth-round selection, will have an opportunity to contribute. Oakland had just 13 sacks a season ago, an all-time franchise low.
Guenther was sure to mention he’ll know for sure about Crosby and Ferrell once the team wears full-pads. For now, however, the coach is having fun thinking of Crosby’s immense potential.
