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Geno Smith Delivers Clear Maxx Crosby Statement at Raiders OTAs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Levi Dombro | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 6:00 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders have completely revamped their offense this year under new general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll. In March, the team sent a third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for veteran quarterback Geno Smith.

Smith will be the starter under center instead of Aidan O'Connell or Gardner Minshew, who helped the team win just four games in 2024. He already has a rapport with coach Pete Carroll as well, considering the two spent four seasons together in Seattle.

When Smith faced the Raiders in 2022, the Seahawks put up 34 points thanks to his 27-for-37 passing performance in which he racked up 328 yards and two touchdowns. He also got sacked three times, however, 1.5 of which came from star edge rusher Maxx Crosby.

Last Thursday, Smith talked to the media after a Raiders OTA workout. He spoke glowingly about Crosby and what it means to be playing with him now instead of against him.

"Maxx is a great player, I got to know him a little bit more at the Pro Bowl a few years back," Smith said. "One of the hardest working guys I've ever seen. One of the guys who's more committed to football than anyone. He loves the game, you can tell he's passionate about it, and he's got a great leadership style. ... He's a special player, man. It's great to have him on my side."

Crosby is coming off an underwhelming season, as he mustered only 7.5 sacks in an injury-riddled campaign. He missed five games during the 2024 NFL season as well, which marked the first time in his career that he has missed a contest.

Still, he managed 17 tackles for loss and 20 quarterback hits, as well as 45 total tackles. With, hopefully, a healthy defensive line room surrounding him this year, Crosby should be able to take both his game and the Raiders' defense to new heights.

This can only help Smith, who is looking to revitalize the Las Vegas offense as well after a brutal 2024 season in which they averaged just under 18.2 points per game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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