Maxx Crosby faces season-ending surgery, jeopardizing Raiders' playoffs
- Las Vegas Raiders' Maxx Crosby will have arthroscopic ankle surgery likely ending his 2024 season.
- He has been playing with an ankle injury since Week 2 of this season, initially sustained against Baltimore.
- Crosby's recovery will begin immediately, eyeing a return for the 2025 season, increasing the likelihood of trade discussions.
In the United States, Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby has been ruled out of the upcoming Monday night game against the Atlanta Falcons due to a significant ankle injury. Initially hurt in Week 2 of the season while playing against Baltimore, Crosby's condition has deteriorated over the course of the season. After it was revealed that he would require arthroscopic surgery, the Raiders' organization announced that this procedure would likely end his 2024 season. The team's medical staff is concerned that the injury might be worse than previously diagnosed, leading to the necessity for not just one, but potentially multiple surgeries. With the surgery scheduled for the upcoming Monday, Crosby is set to meet with Dr. Rob Anderson, who will assess the extent of the damage to his ankle and determine the appropriate steps for recovery. His performance throughout the season has been admirable despite the injury, but the situation has left the team in a difficult position, as they have already been eliminated from playoff contention this year. Crosby’s recovery and rehabilitation will start soon, focusing on being ready for the 2025 season, whether as a Raider or potentially with a new team. The Raiders had already faced inquiries from other NFL teams regarding Crosby's availability before the trade deadline in November, but the organization's reluctance to trade him was made clear by owner Mark Davis, who asserted their commitment to keeping Crosby on the roster. Nonetheless, Crosby's age, at nearly 28, paired with his skill level, makes him a desirable player for teams looking to strengthen their rosters in the future. As the offseason approaches, it is vital to consider how Crosby’s absence will affect the Raiders moving forward. The franchise is undergoing a rebuilding phase, particularly with an eye on drafting a new quarterback for the next season, and Crosby's status will be a key point of discussion during this transition period, especially considering the ongoing trade discussions that are likely to take place as teams evaluate their needs for future seasons.