Raiders' Max Crosby Fails Physical, Status In Question
Raiders Max Crosby Fails Physical, Status In Question...
Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Max Crosby failed his physical exam Thursday, casting uncertainty over his availability for offseason workouts. The 28-year-old Pro Bowler, who led the NFL with 16 sacks last season, reportedly struggled with a lingering knee issue during the evaluation at the team's Henderson, Nevada facility.
The failed physical comes just weeks before the Raiders' voluntary offseason program begins April 3. Team officials confirmed the development but declined to specify whether Crosby faces surgery or extended rehabilitation. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported the knee problem stems from wear accumulated during Crosby's league-high 1,103 defensive snaps in 2025.
Crosby's condition sparked immediate concern among Raiders fans, with #PrayForMax trending on Twitter in Las Vegas and Oakland. The pass rusher hasn't missed a game since his 2019 rookie season, starting 82 consecutive contests. His 67.5 career sacks rank third among active players behind only Aaron Donald and T.J. Watt.
Team physician Dr. Warren King told reporters the evaluation revealed "significant inflammation" in Crosby's right knee. The Raiders placed no timetable on his return but emphasized they won't rush their defensive cornerstone. Crosby earned his third straight All-Pro selection last season while playing through what teammates called "constant pain."
The development could force Las Vegas to adjust its free agency strategy ahead of Wednesday's legal tampering period. General Manager Tom Telesco had planned to focus on offensive upgrades but may now pursue veteran pass rush help. Crosby accounts for 38% of the Raiders' sacks since 2022.
Head coach Antonio Pierce called Crosby "the heartbeat of our defense" during last month's NFL Combine. The team's social media accounts posted a brief video Friday showing Crosby rehabbing in the weight room with the caption "Road to Recovery." Sports medicine analyst Dr. David Chao cautioned that similar cases typically require 4-6 weeks of rest before reassessment.
Crosby's $98 million contract includes $53 million guaranteed through 2027. The Raiders face no immediate financial pressure to make roster moves, as the failure triggers no contractual clauses. Crosby hasn't publicly commented but liked several fan support messages on Instagram late Thursday.
The news comes during a turbulent Raiders offseason that saw the firing of offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi and quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's release. Las Vegas opens training camp July 22 in Costa Mesa, California, where Crosby's status will likely dominate discussions.
