Las Vegas Raiders: Navigating a Tough Start Amid Key Changes
The Las Vegas Raiders have embarked on the 2023 NFL season with significant challenges, reflected in their difficult 2-4 start. In a move that surprised many, the Raiders opted to trade wide receiver Davante Adams to the New York Jets. As the team recalibrates, it faces several challenges on the field and in its lineup.
One glaring issue confronting the Raiders is their league-high number of missed tackles, a total of 83, that has severely impacted their defensive reliability. Despite this, Maxx Crosby remains a bright spot in their defense. The defensive end has been in formidable form, co-leading the NFL in tackles for loss, with nine, and ranking fifth overall in sacks, with five-and-a-half this season. These statistics highlight Crosby’s significant contribution to the team, underlining his importance as an anchor in their defensive lineup.
Crosby’s commitment is echoed in his quotes, “I'm not here to rebuild. I'm here to win. So I don't know, whatever that means. But, I'm here to win now. Wherever I'm gonna be, I'm gonna be here to win so that's all that matters to me.” In an environment bustling with trade and contract speculations, Raiders owner Mark Davis has made it clear that Crosby is untouchable in trade discussions, emphatically stating, “It's just not happening.” Such declarations provide a glimpse into the franchise’s strategic vision, especially after inking Crosby to a $94 million contract, underlining their long-term faith in his abilities.
Crosby’s historical performance backs up this commitment. Last year, he led all defensive linemen with 1,037 snaps and 24 tackles for loss. Over the past two seasons, he has amassed 27 sacks, accounting for 37% of the Raiders’ team sacks, a testament to his irreplaceable presence and capability on the field.
In contrast, the Raiders deal with setbacks that have plagued other teams too, with key players like Aidan Hutchinson and Jonathan Allen sitting out the season due to injuries. For Las Vegas, maintaining Crosby’s health and maximizing his performance is crucial. Antonio Pierce, shedding light on Crosby’s readiness and mindset, noted, “He's still a Raider. He's never not been a Raider. He's still a Raider. When he's healthy and can play, we'll play him... He's in the right headspace mentally. We talked recently and had a good conversation. He's ready to play football.” Such comments reassure fans and stakeholders alike about Crosby’s physical condition and mental fortitude.
The Raiders’ current situation hints at broader strategic considerations, such as potential picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. This foresight suggests the organization is keeping a close eye on securing a top quarterback prospect, perhaps indicating a rebuilding phase despite current player sentiments. November 5th is marked as a date of significance for the team's broader decision-making processes, albeit the exact implications of this are yet to be fully understood.
While the season may not have started as hoped, the Raiders are navigating through a period of transformation with key players like Maxx Crosby central to their plans. As they work to overcome their record and on-field deficiencies, the commitment from their internal leadership to retain their star players underscores a determination to build a formidable squad capable of future success.