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Maxx Crosby Sends Clear Message on Geno Smith

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Austin C. Boyd | Last updated Mar 11, 2025 7:39 PM ET

Maxx Crosby held the Las Vegas Raiders' feet to the fire this offseason and they've responded in a major way. The star defensive end wanted stability at head coach so the team hired Super Bowl champion Pete Carroll.

He wanted a new contract so they made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history (before Myles Garrett surpassed him days later). He wanted an upgrade at quarterback so the team traded for Geno Smith.

While Smith isn't as big of a name as Matthew Stafford or Aaron Rodgers, he's had a lot of success over the last three seasons. Crosby made it clear that he's very happy that the Raiders added the veteran quarterback.

"It's a big deal, bro," Crosby said of the Smith trade on Tuesday's episode of "The Rush." "I think it helps us immensely. With the draft upcoming, it gives us more flexibility so there's a lot of good things that come with that, as well. And he's a winner. He's done really well in Seattle. ... It's super exciting, bro."

Crosby is clearly on board with Smith as the Raiders quarterback going forward. He is on an expiring contract but the team will likely fix that quickly. For the first time in Crosby's career, the Raiders might finally have some stability.

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

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