Maxx Crosby, a Las Vegas Raiders Pro Bowl pass-rusher, detailed on Friday’s episode of NFL+’s “The Insiders” why he plans to play in Sunday’s home game against the 6-6 Minnesota Vikings despite a nagging knee ailment.
“If I’m able and have a heartbeat, I’m going to go out there with my brothers and try to go get a win,” Crosby stated, according to NFL.com’s Kevin Patra.
Crosby played in the 31-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Nov. 26 before Las Vegas’ bye, despite being labeled as doubtful for that game. Following his defeat, he confessed that he battled “some infections” and even spent time in the hospital before the match.
“It was — like I said, it was probably one of the hardest things I’ve been through,” Crosby added. “I’ve been through a lot of difficult times in my life.” It was certainly up there. At the end of the day, it’s just a blessing. Because I seek for the good in everything, everything happens for a reason. I was able to fight through all of the ups and downs of the week, even being in the hospital.”
Crosby thought he was just “like 60 percent” healthy against the Chiefs, but it didn’t stop him from recording a sack. According to ESPN numbers, he is tied for sixth in the NFL with 11.5 sacks this season.
The ESPN Football Power Index gave the 5-7 Raiders a 0.9% chance of making the playoffs as of early Friday evening. As long as Crosby is medically cleared, he should be able to play against Minnesota.
“If I can go out there and impact the game in any way to help my guys, I’m going to do it,” Crosby said during a segment on the show. “I’ve had two weeks to get my body back in order, to refocus and reenergize — I can’t wait for the last month.” I’m feeling wonderful right now, and I’ll be practicing soon. I can’t wait to hang out with the fellas.”
Las Vegas was ranked as a 2.5-point underdog against the Vikings on Friday by oddschecker. Crosby appears to be in no need of extra incentive for the game, given that the Raiders are in a must-win situation on Sunday.
