The Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold move by signing defensive end Maxx Crosby to a staggering three-year deal worth $106.5 million, solidifying their commitment to retaining top-tier talent prior to the offseason. Following a tumultuous season with only four wins, the Raiders, now under the leadership of new general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll, recognize Crosby's elite status as a two-time All-Pro. Despite the hefty paycheck awarded to Crosby, the Raiders face significant obstacles in the highly competitive AFC if they aspire to transform into a genuine playoff contender.

Crosby, optimistic about the team's future, spoke candidly on the 'Glory Daze' podcast with Johnny Manziel, sharing insights on the improvements he anticipates for the 2025 season. He expressed relief at no longer having to carry the team's defense single-handedly, suggesting a more balanced roster could lead to immediate competitiveness. The question remains whether the Raiders can effectively build upon this momentum and support their star players adequately.

The Las Vegas Raiders faced significant challenges in the 2024 season, particularly on offense due to questionable coaching and player decisions. Despite these struggles, the Raiders' defense, previously touted as a strength, suffered from a myriad of injuries. Key losses included edge rusher Malcolm Koonce, who was sidelined throughout the season with a torn ACL, and defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who was unable to return after a broken foot in Week 5. Maxx Crosby, a durable star, missed five games, while cornerbacks Nate Hobbs and Jakorian Bennett had six and seven-game absences, respectively.

Looking ahead, Crosby and Koonce appear to be fully healthy as they return to the team this offseason. This revitalization can significantly bolster the Raiders’ defensive capabilities, which struggled in their absence last season. As the team gears up for the upcoming campaign, the successful integration of these players back into the lineup will be crucial for enhancing their defensive performance and overall competitiveness in the league.

The Las Vegas Raiders have made headlines by signing defensive end Maxx Crosby to a staggering three-year, $106.5 million extension, including $91.5 million guaranteed. The deal solidifies Crosby's status as a cornerstone for the franchise, reflecting his prowess as a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Second-Team All-Pro. His ability on the field has translated into lucrative sponsorships and significant influence in the sports world.

In the realm of basketball, the Indiana Pacers marked a thrilling Game 1 of the NBA Finals by overcoming a 15-point deficit against the Oklahoma City Thunder, thanks to a spectacular last-second shot from Tyrese Haliburton. Crosby, clearly enthused by the game, celebrated Haliburton's clutch moment on social media, showcasing his diverse interests beyond football.

Maxx Crosby, the Las Vegas Raiders defensive end, expressed skepticism about Travis Hunter's dual role potential in the NFL. Despite recognizing Hunter's impressive skill set, Crosby doubts the Jacksonville Jaguars will fully unleash him on both sides of the ball, emphasizing the need for coaches to protect their star players. Hunter, a standout at Colorado and the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, excelled as both a lockdown corner and a wide receiver, but Crosby points out that the NFL's physicality demands cautious handling.

Hunter's performance in college was remarkable, with significant stats including 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, alongside defensive highlights like 4 interceptions. However, the transition to the NFL poses unique challenges, and Crosby's insights reflect the cautious approach teams often take with versatile players to ensure their longevity in the league.

The NFL offseason in 2025 has been characterized by unprecedented financial windfalls for standout players, notably with several non-quarterbacks setting record contracts. Maxx Crosby initially claimed the title of highest-paid non-QB with a staggering $35.5 million per season, only to be surpassed by Myles Garrett’s $40 million and later by Ja'Marr Chase at $40.25 million. Quarterbacks aren't left behind, as Josh Allen secured a monumental $250 million guaranteed deal, while Brock Purdy locked in a $265 million extension with the 49ers. The anticipation builds as we identify potential candidates for hefty extensions.

Among the players nearing new deals, James Cook of the Buffalo Bills stands out. Entering the last year of his rookie contract, Cook seeks a lucrative deal estimated at $15 million annually, which could position him among the league's top-paid running backs if he continues his impressive performance. Other notable players include Tyreek Hill from the Dolphins and Sauce Gardner of the Jets, both poised for potentially lucrative extensions that would reflect their elite status in the league.