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Maxx Crosby Reacts to Former NFL Star's Retirement Decision on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Oct 13, 2025 8:41 PM ET

The NFL season is heading into the midway point, with several teams separating themselves as Super Bowl contenders.

Last season, the Super Bowl title was earned by the Philadelphia Eagles. Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and the rest of the Eagles led the team to a win over the Kansas City Chiefs.

This season, the landscape looks quite different in the NFL.

Nevertheless, the Eagles have stayed consistent in the road to defending their Super Bowl title. After Week 6 of the NFL season, the Eagles are 4-2, sitting atop of their respective division.

Amid the 2025 season for the Eagles, a former Pro Bowler decided to hang up his jersey.

On Monday, Za'Darius Smith announced his retirement from the NFL.

"As I step into the newest season of my life, please know this game has meant the world to me," Smith said. "The lessons learned on and off the field will stay with me forever. Love,
Z."

Upon the announcement, several players took to the comments, sending a message to Smith on his decision.

"Game changer," Crosby said. "Incredible career brother."

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Za'Darius Smith played 11 seasons in the NFL. While he played his final season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Smith also took the field for the Baltimore Ravens, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns and Green Bay Packers.

Throughout his career in the NFL, Smith posted 70.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, 10 forced fumbles and 16 pass deflections.

Maxx Crosby has formed quite the succesful career himself with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Crosby has played seven seasons with the Raiders. During his time in Las Vegas, Crosby has been named a four-time Pro Bowler.

So far this season, Crosby has posted one interception, one forced fumble, five pass deflections and four sacks.

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

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