Maxx Crosby joins support over AJ Cole extension

The Las Vegas Raiders made a long-term investment on Monday, signing AJ Cole to a four-year extension that makes him the highest-paid punter in the NFL.

The extension is well-earned, as Cole has proved himself as one of the best punters in the NFL. He has earned two first-team All-Pro honors (2021, 2023), made three Pro Bowls (2021-23) and hit a career high in yards per punt last season with 50.8. While it is likely Cole’s time atop the financial mountain will be short (Logan Cooke (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Jack Fox (Carolina Panthers) will likely eclipse that mark next offseason), it is a wise investment by the Raiders for someone who has proven their elite status.

The deal garnered serious praise around the NFL, and one of Cole’s teammates also took to social media to join the congratulations.

Cole’s extension has a serious supporter in Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby.

“EARNED,” Crosby shared on his Instagram story regarding his teammate’s new deal. “Proud of you my brother, @AJCole90.”

Crosby was one of the more recent players to extend with the Raiders, signing a three-year, $106,5 million extension in March to keep him in Las Vegas until at least 2028. He knows that the new regime in Las Vegas is dedicated to fostering continuity and rewarding players who contribute positively, and Cole’s extension was another reminder of that philosophy.

Crosby was not the only one in NFL circles to congratulate Cole, however.

“Worth every penny,” new Raiders safety Lonnie Johnson Jr. shared on his Instagram story.

“This man is one of one,” former Los Angeles Chargers punter Ty Long shared on Instagram. “Congrats homie. Absolute model of consistency.”

Everyone from players to agents all congratulated Cole for setting the new benchmark for punters in the league.

With Cole now locked in, he now can solely look forward to continuing to provide strong special teams play for the Silver and Black.