Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby is set to undergo knee surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season, according to league sources. The team has placed Crosby on injured reserve as they focus on his recovery and long-term health heading into the 2026 season. The news comes during a challenging week for the Raiders, who have also placed Pro Bowl tight end Brock Bowers on injured reserve.
The Raiders are gearing up for a crucial game against the New York Giants, which could significantly influence the draft order for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. This matchup is pivotal, as the loser may have an edge for the coveted No. 1 overall pick.
In an official statement released on Saturday, the Raiders emphasized that their decision regarding Crosby is purely medical. “We have made the decision to place Maxx Crosby on the Reserve/Injured list for the remainder of the 2025 season,” the statement read. “After thorough consultations with multiple top medical professionals, it became clear that this decision is in the best interest of both the franchise and the player.”
Crosby has battled through injury since sustaining a left knee injury on October 19, 2025, during a game against Kansas City. He has struggled to participate in regular practice sessions since the injury. An MRI conducted on Tuesday revealed that the issue had persisted, raising long-term concerns should it remain unaddressed.
Raiders head coach Pete Carroll noted the extent of Crosby’s effort to continue playing, stating, “Each week, he has done everything you could possibly imagine a guy could do to play.” However, after a recent evaluation, the coaching staff concluded that continuing to play could jeopardize Crosby’s future.
Crosby expressed disappointment at the decision to shut him down for the season, as he wanted to contribute to the team’s efforts. Carroll shared that they had multiple discussions throughout the day, acknowledging Crosby’s determination and competitive spirit. “He knows that he’s banged up,” Carroll explained. “We’ve been talking about it, and it was exactly what you would think he would do.”
This marks the second consecutive season Crosby will not finish due to injury. Last year, he underwent surgery for a high ankle sprain. The Raiders are prioritizing the health of their key players, as evidenced by their decision regarding Bowers, who has been dealing with a PCL injury and bone bruise since Week 1.
Despite Crosby’s absence, the Raiders have no plans to shut down any other players ahead of their matchup against the Giants. Quarterback Geno Smith, running back Ashton Jeanty, and wide receiver Tre Tucker are all expected to play.
As the Raiders prepare for this critical game, they face a unique situation where the outcome could impact their future significantly. The stakes are high, with potential playoff implications for the teams involved. When asked about the possibility of securing the top pick in the draft, Crosby remarked, “I don’t give a s— about the pick. I don’t play for that. My job is to be the best defensive end in the world.”
The Raiders are focused on protecting their most valuable assets, Crosby and Bowers, as they navigate the remainder of the season and look ahead to their future strategies.
