Maxx Crosby's season has officially come to an end as the Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher revealed on Instagram this past Saturday morning. After struggling with persistent issues related to his right ankle, Crosby announced he will require surgery, marking the second time this year he has sustained a roll-up injury to the same joint. This setback follows reports from ESPN's Adam Schefter, detailing the severity of the injury and the imminent surgical procedure.
"I will not be playing the rest of the season. Second time this year getting rolled up on the same ankle and now it will require surgery," Crosby stated. He expressed disappointment at missing the remainder of the season, indicating his continual commitment to playing through pain and for his fans. "I truly believe everything happens for a reason," he added, maintaining his determination to return stronger than ever.
Maxx Crosby's absence results from aggravation during the Raiders' Week 2 game against the Baltimore Ravens, though his injury has lingered throughout the season. Currently, Crosby ranks among the league’s top performers, leading with 17 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and five passes defended. Unfortunately for the Raiders, who now sit at the bottom of their division with a 2-11 record, Crosby's injury is just one of many issues as they look toward the future.
Meanwhile, Myles Garrett, the standout edge rusher for the Cleveland Browns, publicly requested a trade from his team, expressing desires to join a Super Bowl contender. His demand arises after eight seasons with the Browns, during which his talents have shone through but were not matched by team success. "I want to contend for the Super Bowl," Garrett stated, emphasizing his frustration with the bleak prospects for the Browns.
Interestingly, discussions have surfaced surrounding the possibility of Garrett joining the Raiders, where he could team up with the injured Crosby. According to NFL insiders, including The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, one general manager suggested the Raiders should look to pair Garrett—who racked up impressive statistics this past season—with Crosby if they can execute the trade, chaotic circumstances notwithstanding.
The Browns, on the other hand, remain resolute against any trade of their star player, with management insisting on their intent to keep Garrett, as they otherwise risk losing one of the game’s most dominating forces. This creates complexity amid the discussions, as the Raiders could request Garrett's services, but the Browns’ firm stance complicates negotiations. Insiders have assessed the potential asking price for Garrett could range from steep draft picks to player swaps, with heightened competition expected among interested teams.
The Raiders have also been vocal, attempting to quell rumors surrounding their stars, with team owner Mark Davis asserting, "We’re Not Trading Maxx Crosby, Before Or After The Trade Deadline!!!" Despite Davis's reassurances, the speculation is unlikely to fade as the offseason approaches—especially with Crosby’s health uncertainties and Garrett’s trade demand swirling rumors of potential player movement.
An exciting yet turbulent time continues for both teams as they weigh their respective futures. For the Cleveland Browns, the key is whether they can reshape their organization around their defensive standout without trading him away. Meanwhile, the Raiders face pivotal decisions about how to navigate their rebuild and if acquiring more top-tier talents—like Garrett—aligns with their current vision.
Could the emergence of Garrett alongside Crosby, should the trade materialize, create nightmares for opposing offenses? The prospect of two premier pass rushers teaming up excites fans, yet there is still uncertainty due to each player's unique situation. With Crosby recovering from injury and Garrett's pursuits for championship contention, the direction of both players—and the teams they represent—remains compelling as the NFL season concludes.
For now, attention turns to Crosby’s surgery slated for Monday and Garrett’s trade request, both representing pivotal transitions for these key figures. The potential shake-ups across the league can lead to unpredictable outcomes, which will be monitored eagerly by fans, analysts, and front offices alike.