The Las Vegas Raiders secured a crucial win over the New England Patriots to kick off the 2025 season, and once again, their defensive anchor made history. Star pass rusher Maxx Crosby recorded his first sack of the 2025 season, taking down second-year quarterback Drake Maye for a one-yard loss.
While the play itself was routine by Crosby’s standards, the milestone it represented placed him among an elite group of defenders in franchise and NFL history.
With that sack, Crosby reached 60.5 career sacks, becoming just the third player in Raiders history to surpass 60 career sacks, joining legends Howie Long and Greg Townsend. His consistency since entering the league in 2019 has been nothing short of remarkable, and he now joins legends on the Raiders‘ all-time list while continuing to cement his legacy as one of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers.
Maxx Crosby Among NFL’s Elite Since 2019
Since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Crosby has consistently outperformed expectations. Known for his relentless motor and unmatched work ethic, he quickly developed into the face of the Raiders‘ defense.
His sack of Maye added his name to an exclusive NFL club: only five players have recorded 60 or more sacks since 2019. That includes premier pass rushers T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett, Trey Hendrickson, and Nick Bosa.
To stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those names is no small feat. All four of those players were first-round selections, widely viewed as can’t-miss prospects.
Crosby, on the other hand, came in as a mid-round flyer out of Eastern Michigan with little expectations. His rise to stardom demonstrates how hard work, preparation, and consistency can turn potential into greatness.
Before the game, Patriots first-round pick, left tackle Will Campbell, praised Crosby while reflecting on the challenge of having to block him in his debut game.
“He’s a great player. They got a great team,” Campbell said. “There’s a bunch of good players on the defense, so we just gotta go out there and handle our business.”
The rookie added that he spent a significant amount of time watching tape to prepare for Crosby’s unique blend of speed, power, and technique.
Campbell’s comments highlight what offensive linemen around the league already know: preparing for Crosby requires extra effort. His reputation as one of the NFL’s toughest matchups has become well-earned over the years.
A Franchise Cornerstone and Defensive Leader
Beyond the numbers, Crosby has embraced his role as the heartbeat of the defense. He has consistently played through injuries, set the tone in practices, and emerged as one of the league’s most vocal leaders on and off the field.
For a Raiders team that has seen plenty of turnover in recent years, Crosby has been a steady force and a symbol of the grit and toughness the franchise has long been known for.
Crosby himself summed up his mindset before the start of the season.
“We’re trying to win. I want to win so badly… put everything into it. I want everybody else to think like that. And that’s been my goal, just bringing as many guys along as I possibly can.”
With the Raiders‘ defense only allowing three second-half points against the Patriots, Crosby had this to say.
“Getting a win to start this year was super important to us. Proud of all the guys, super happy to be a part of this team and a part of this journey.”
With plenty of games left ahead of him, the All-Pro isn’t just chasing more sacks; he’s chasing a legacy that could eventually see his name mentioned among the greatest to ever wear the Silver and Black.
Maxx Crosby Hits Historic Milestone in Raiders’ Win Over Patriots