Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of the University of Michigan football team and former NFL coach, has never been one to hold back when it comes to recognizing elite talent. In recent remarks, Harbaugh heaped significant praise on Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive end Maxx Crosby, referring to him as “a premier edge player” not only in the modern NFL but across the league’s entire history. Such high praise from a seasoned football mind like Harbaugh is no small compliment, and it adds to the growing chorus of voices that see Crosby as one of the most dominant defensive players in the game today.
Maxx Crosby: From Overlooked to Overwhelming
Maxx Crosby’s rise to NFL stardom is nothing short of remarkable. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Eastern Michigan, Crosby didn’t come into the league with the same level of hype that surrounds most top pass-rushers. He wasn’t a highly touted first-round prospect, nor did he play for a college powerhouse. Instead, Crosby had to fight for every opportunity, and it was his relentless work ethic and pure determination that propelled him to success.
From the moment Crosby stepped onto the field for the Raiders, it was clear that he had something special. In his rookie season, he racked up 10 sacks, a significant feat for a player who wasn’t expected to be an immediate impact starter. His combination of speed, power, and high motor made him a constant problem for opposing offensive linemen. By the end of his rookie year, Crosby had earned recognition as one of the league’s top young defensive ends and finished fourth in the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.
Since then, Crosby’s game has only continued to evolve. His relentless motor and tireless work ethic have become his trademarks, with coaches and teammates frequently praising his commitment to improving. He’s not just a pass-rusher who relies on raw athleticism; Crosby has become a technician on the field, constantly refining his moves, improving his footwork, and adding more to his toolbox each year.
Jim Harbaugh’s High Praise
For Jim Harbaugh, a coach who has seen and coached some of the best players in football, to call Crosby a “premier edge player” in NFL history is a monumental statement. Harbaugh has coached in the NFL, leading the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance, and is known for his football acumen. He has coached and played against some of the league’s greatest defensive players, including legends like Lawrence Taylor, Reggie White, and DeMarcus Ware. For him to include Crosby in a conversation that spans generations of NFL talent speaks volumes about how highly he regards the young defensive end.
In his praise of Crosby, Harbaugh didn’t just highlight his physical abilities—though those are certainly impressive—but also emphasized his relentless work ethic and leadership on the field. Crosby’s intensity during games, his commitment to improving every day, and his drive to be the best make him a special player, according to Harbaugh. The coach noted that Crosby’s motor is what truly sets him apart. Unlike some players who might take plays off or fade late in games, Crosby brings 100% effort on every snap, constantly putting pressure on opposing offenses.
“Maxx is relentless,” Harbaugh said. “You don’t see that kind of drive often, and when you do, it’s what separates the good players from the great ones. He’s someone that offenses have to account for on every play, and even then, it’s not always enough to stop him.”
Crosby’s Impact on the Raiders’ Defense
Maxx Crosby has quickly become the heart and soul of the Las Vegas Raiders’ defense. His ability to wreak havoc in the backfield has made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Crosby has developed into a complete player who can dominate both in pass-rushing situations and in run defense. His relentless pursuit of the ball and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield makes him one of the most dangerous edge rushers in the league.
In 2021, Crosby took his game to another level. That season, he recorded 8 sacks and led the league in quarterback pressures with 82, demonstrating just how dominant he could be. More importantly, he showcased a leadership quality that has helped elevate the Raiders’ defense as a whole. Crosby’s presence on the field isn’t just about individual stats; it’s about the energy and intensity he brings to every play, inspiring his teammates to match his effort.
Beyond the stat sheet, Crosby’s impact can be seen in the way opposing offenses game-plan around him. His presence forces teams to adjust their protections, often double-teaming him or using running backs and tight ends to chip him, which in turn opens up opportunities for his teammates to make plays. In a league where edge rushers are often measured by their sack numbers alone, Crosby’s ability to disrupt offenses in multiple ways has made him invaluable to the Raiders.
A Look at Crosby’s Place in NFL History
Harbaugh’s comments raise an interesting question: Where does Maxx Crosby rank among the all-time great edge rushers in NFL history?
While it might be too early in Crosby’s career to definitively place him among the likes of Lawrence Taylor, Bruce Smith, or Reggie White, the trajectory he’s on is undoubtedly impressive. He’s already established himself as one of the most feared defenders in today’s NFL, and if he continues on his current path, there’s no reason to believe he won’t go down as one of the best to ever play the position.
One of the things that makes Crosby so unique is his versatility. Unlike some edge rushers who are strictly pass-rushers, Crosby is a complete defensive end who excels in every phase of the game. His ability to play both the run and the pass at an elite level sets him apart from many of his peers. This all-around game is a key reason why Harbaugh—and many others—see him as a generational talent.
In terms of numbers, Crosby is already putting up stats that rival some of the best to ever play the game. His combination of sacks, tackles for loss, and quarterback pressures place him among the league leaders each year, and his durability and consistency suggest that he could be a dominant force for years to come.
The Future for Maxx Crosby
As Maxx Crosby continues to build his legacy, the sky seems to be the limit for him. His work ethic, physical talent, and football IQ have already set him apart from many of his peers, and as he enters the prime of his career, it’s likely that we’ve only seen the beginning of what he can accomplish.
With Harbaugh’s glowing endorsement now part of his resume, Crosby’s star power continues to rise. As he keeps adding to his highlight reel and his list of accolades, it’s clear that Maxx Crosby is on the path to greatness. If he can stay healthy and maintain his current level of play, there’s no doubt that he will be remembered as one of the premier edge players in NFL history—just as Harbaugh predicted.
For now, though, Crosby remains focused on the task at hand: helping the Raiders become a dominant force in the NFL. And with a player of his caliber leading the charge, it’s safe to say that both Crosby and the Raiders have a bright future ahead.
