HC Antonio Pierce is not pleased with Maxx Crosby’s frustration over Raiders’ struggles
Los Angeles Raiders DE Maxx Crosby denoted the losing record has taken a toll on his mental health last week.
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Maxx Crosby, Antonio Pierce (Image via AP/Imago)
Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce responded to defensive end Maxx Crosby‘s honest admission of the 2024 season. The 27-year-old Michigander Crosby made a few headlines after discussing the season’s toll on him.
Maxx Crosby recently opened up about the Las Vegas Raiders’ challenging start to the season during an appearance on the SiriusXM NFL Radio Let’s Go! podcast. The star defensive end shared how the struggles on the field have taken a significant mental toll on him, revealing how much he invests in the game. The Las Vegas Raiders are 2-10 after 13 weeks, heading into their third consecutive losing season.
Crosby admitted that the difficulties of the season tested his resolve, considering he cares more about winning than anything on the planet.
I care about winning more than anything on the planet. So, yeah, there were points in the season where I feel like I was losing my mind. I had to really reset. There were points where I felt like I was losing my mind.
Maxx Crosby said on the SiriusXM NFL Radio Let’s Go! podcast
On Friday, head coach Antonio Pierce was asked about Crosby’s comments, and his response appeared somewhat mixed with confusion.
Didn’t really hear that quote or read that quote, so I can’t really go into details. Maxx has been Maxx. He’s here every day at 6 AM and one of the last guys that leaves. Finally got him healthy, practicing full go. Effort, attitude, everything has been right on our end.
Antonio Pierce claimed
Antonio Pierce said today was the first he heard of Maxx Crosby’s comments on “losing his mind” this season. pic.twitter.com/ETRdy10xfm
— Raiders Wire (@RaidersWire) December 6, 2024
Raiders Report host Mitchell Renz speculated that Pierce might not have liked Crosby’s quote. However, it could also be likely that it was simply the first time Pierce heard about the comments. All being said, the shoving incident between the duo wasn’t far too long away. The latest update added more fuel to the Raiders’ internal dispute theory.
Maxx Crosby leads Raiders defense as Tampa Bay prepares for tough challenge
In Week 14, the Las Vegas Raiders’ defense showcased its strength by limiting Patrick Mahomes to a 45.7 QB rating, his second lowest of the season, and an 84.1 passer rating, his third lowest. They effectively contained him in the pocket, allowing just four rushing yards.
Earlier in the week, Antonio Pierce commented that K’Lavon Chaisson has taken over Malcolm Koonce‘s role and the Raiders can utilize the ‘NASCAR package’ as it is known in Vegas circles. The NASCAR package involves deploying four defensive ends on the line at once. It helped to close off many of the running lanes that typically open up for Mahomes in standard situations.
Maxx Crosby, a three-time Pro Bowler, is one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers. The Raiders, albeit in a losing season, gained immense power from Crosby. This season, Crosby has recorded 7½ sacks and 31 hurries, placing him among the top 10 in the league, according to Pro Football Focus. Despite a losing track, Crosby continues to be a fearsome feature for any opponent.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield and Tristan Wirfs both noted that the huge part of their game would be limiting Crosby. The Bucs are playing the Raiders this week looking to one-up the Falcons in the NFC South.
Related: Ja’Marr Chase’s dad remains confident about his son winning a Super Bowl with Bengals
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Mohammed Bazim
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