In a recent article by Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus, he wrote about the 25 best players under 25 years old. One player for the Raiders showed up on the list and that was none other than Maxx Crosby. Here are Sikkema’s thoughts on stud defensive end for the Raiders:
“The Raiders’ third-year pass-rusher took a leap into elite status this past season. In 2021, his 91.7 pass-rush grade ranked second only to Myles Garrett. Crosby also leads the league in total pressures (200) over the past three seasons, playoffs included, for players under the age of 25.
Crosby recorded 67.3 and 58.2 pass-rush grades in his previous two seasons, so the jump to an elite mark in 2021 was quite the statement. Now, he’ll have Chandler Jones lining up with him along the Raiders’ defensive line. With that, expect more one-on-one opportunities for Crosby to continue his top pass-rush play.”
Crosby “only” had eight sacks last season, but his 30 quarterback hits were more than his first two seasons combined (27). He was just far more disruptive and consistent than he was in the first two years of his career.
Crosby doesn’t turn 25 years old until August, but he’s already established himself as one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. And now with Chandler Jones opposite of him, don’t be surprised if his sack total doubles in 2022.
