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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 04: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on prior to the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby provided clarity on his health early this week, sharing a personal update that answered speculation surrounding his status.
In a post on Instagram, Crosby revealed he recently underwent successful knee surgery. While the defensive end did not provide a specific timetable for his return, there are still questions regarding his future in Las Vegas.
Drama Surrounding Maxx Crosby and the Raiders
According to ESPN, Crosby suffered the initial injury to his left knee against the Kansas City Chiefs and had been playing through the issue for much of the year.
An additional MRI revealed the injury had persisted and could present long-term concerns if left unaddressed, prompting the organization to consult multiple medical professionals before making the decision.
Despite the medical reasoning, the decision was not without tension. Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer reported that Crosby “vehemently disagreed” with being shut down and left the team facility after learning of the move. Head coach Pete Carroll later confirmed Crosby’s frustration, noting that Crosby wanted to leave the facility once he found out.
“He knows that he’s banged up, so he’s talking about, ‘I’d like to get out of here,’” Carroll said. “And I said, ‘Yeah, get out of here.’ So he took off.”
Trade Speculation Emerges
GettyGeneral manager John Spytek of the Las Vegas Raiders.
Crosby’s injury situation has evolved into broader questions about his future with the organization. Per ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler and Ryan McFadden, a personnel executive from another team believes Crosby is “done in Vegas,” adding that the Raiders’ star is “a pretty principled dude.”
The report aligns with growing league-wide speculation. The Athletic’s Dianna Russini previously reported that people around the NFL believe Las Vegas could be open to trading Crosby if the two sides are unable to mend what has been described as a “strained” relationship.
Crosby’s feelings are valid. He’s done everything he can to help the Raiders become great, yet the franchise is always falling behind and letting him down.
However, Raiders general manager John Spytek attempted to downplay the rumors.
“I love Maxx,” Spytek told reporters. “He embodies what a Raider is. I’ve been pretty up front with that from the day I sat up here a year ago and I continue to believe that.”
Crosby, 28, remains one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers. Despite battling the knee injury throughout the season, he still managed to notch 73 total tackles, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, six pass deflections, and one interception in 15 games.
Now, with successful surgery behind him, Crosby enters the offseason focused on rehabilitation while questions continue to swirl about where he’ll play in 2026.
Isaac Zuniga is a sports reporter covering the NFL for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, and Las Vegas Raiders. More about Isaac Zuniga
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