Maxx Crosby said in an interview before the draft last year that his strengths were “my length, quickness, hands and competitive edge.” After going in the fourth round to the Oakland Raiders, Crosby immediately put his strengths on display, totaling 10 sacks, 16 tackles for a loss, and four forced fumbles as one of the top rookies in the NFL. It’s rare to see a rookie or second-year player take a leadership role, and were Crosby on the Raiders’ offense that may not be possible yet.
But for a defense that could feature seven or more new starters next season, Crosby is a leader.