Las Vegas Raiders defensive standout Maxx Crosby recently opened up about the whirlwind offseason that nearly saw him traded to the Baltimore Ravens. In an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, Crosby shared his candid reflections on the failed deal and expressed gratitude for remaining with the Raiders.
Feeling Out the Vibes
In the weeks leading up to the potential trade, Crosby sensed that something was amiss. Despite a strong push from the Ravens to acquire him, the talented defensive end felt that the "vibes" surrounding the situation were off. "I just felt like in that situation, it didn't feel right when it was happening," Crosby recalled. He emphasized that his intuition often guides him in life, particularly in understanding people and their energies.
A Rough Transition
Crosby described a complicated few days in Baltimore, underscoring the emotional turmoil that accompanied the trade negotiations. As he navigated through the city limits of Baltimore, Crosby felt an internal battle while witnessing the Raiders make headlines by signing new players. "I couldn't look at a TV without seeing, Raiders are having the best offseason, signing these people," he chuckled, noting the irony of the situation as his phone buzzed with friends and fans discussing the Raiders' promising acquisitions.
Gratitude for Las Vegas
Ultimately, Crosby expressed relief and happiness to return to the Raiders, a team he never wanted to leave in the first place. Despite the outside opinions that surrounded the trade discussions, the 26-year-old defensive end emphasized his commitment to the franchise. "People don't even understand, I never wanted to leave in the first place. I don't do business. I'm not on the business side. I'm not on the third floor. So I don't know," he explained, signaling his focus on being present and dedicated to the Raiders.
Preparing for the Eighth Season
As Crosby gears up for his eighth season in Las Vegas, he acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. The Raiders have made several key acquisitions during the offseason, setting up a robust roster primed for a successful campaign. Crosby is eager to contribute significantly to the team's success and is fully committed to emerging as a leader on and off the field.
Lessons Learned
The entire experience has imparted valuable lessons for Crosby. He navigated the highs and lows of potential trades while remaining grounded in his passion for the game. He aims to channel his challenges and insights into performing at his best, both for himself and for the Raiders’ fanbase that appreciates his dedication.
Looking Ahead
With the offseason behind him, Crosby's focus is entirely on the upcoming season. He remains optimistic about the team's prospects and is determined to make a positive impact in the league. As he puts it, "I'm going to be the best Raider I can be for as long as I possibly can be." His resilience and commitment to Las Vegas could serve as a beacon of hope for fans as the season unfolds.
