Patrick Mahomes Praises Maxx Crosby Before Raiders Clash

When speaking to the media on Wednesday, Mahomes described Crosby as one of the fiercest competitors he’s ever faced, emphasizing that while they may be friends off the field, once the whistle blows, it’s all business.

“It is a ton of respect,” Mahomes said. “I mean, like you said, when I talk to him outside of football it is like we are friends. You would even see what happens on the football field but he is a type of competitor like me and so like when you are on that football field it’s whatever it takes to win… And I have a ton of respect for that.”

Patrick Mahomes vs Maxx Crosby by the Numbers

Few matchups in today’s NFL combine talent, intensity, and familiarity like Mahomes versus Crosby. In games against each other, Crosby has recorded 26 solo tackles, 14 assists, and 6.0 sacks.

But Mahomes has consistently found ways to overcome the pressure. The two-time MVP has a 105.1 passer rating, with 3,565 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just four interceptions, while leading Kansas City to a dominant 10–2 record against the Raiders whenever Crosby has played.

Mutual Respect Between Fierce Competitors

While their on-field battles have produced several fiery exchanges, both Mahomes and Crosby have made it clear that the respect runs deep. Earlier this year, Crosby called Mahomes the best quarterback in football.

“So, I got the ultimate respect for Pat. I’ve said it a million times,” Crosby said. “I look at myself as the ultimate competitor. I look at myself as the best in the world. I know he thinks he’s the best in the world. And I’ve said it myself. So, he brings the best out of me. I know I bring the best out of him. So definitely looking forward to those wars.”

“I think he’s sacked me the most out of anyone I’ve ever played against, so to me, he’s the best pass rusher I’ve played against,” Mahomes said. “He goes out there and he gives you the effort, he has the moves, and he has the skill. And I think it’s hard to have all three of those and have them year in and year out.”

Chiefs’ Offense Rounding Into Form

The duel between Mahomes and Crosby always draws attention, but Kansas City’s offense tells the bigger story this season. The Chiefs have scored 30 or more points in two of their last three games after doing so only twice last year. Mahomes has led that surge with 12 total touchdowns and nearly 950 yards in that stretch, playing at an MVP level.

With Rashee Rice returning from a six-week suspension, the offense looks ready to dominate again. But as Kansas City continues to build momentum, all eyes will turn to Mahomes and Crosby — two fierce competitors who bring out the best in each other.