RADIO
Maxx Crosby 2020 Outlook: Unexpected Emergence Should Continue in Year Two
5 years agoLas Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby wasn't expected to be a major contributor as a rookie but his second-half production as a pass rusher has thrust him into IDP prominence. While first-round pick Clelin Ferrell out of Clemson was the headliner of last year's draft for the Raiders, fourth-rounder Crosby wound up being more valuable. While Ferrell struggled to adjust to the NFL, producing just 4.5 sacks in 15 games, Crosby collected 10 sacks and forced four fumbles. More encouragingly, eight of those sacks came in the second half of the year, which shows that a light switched on mid-year as he became comfortable with his role as a situational pass rusher.
Crosby may never be among the league leaders in QB takedowns given his limited usage and the state of the Raiders defense, but another double-digit sack total looks to be very much in play. The team spent all their draft capital on the offensive side of the ball and did not bring in any veteran pass rushers other than Carl Nassib, who should be a backup. Crosby is ranked 87th overall in our early IDP rankings and should draw attention in any format where DE is required.
