Maxx Crosby's first practice since December 2025 required the Las Vegas Raiders coaching staff to proceed with caution. After seven months rehabbing from knee surgery, Crosby arrived for training camp at full strength, meaning each rep would be played with his hair on fire. Coach Klint Kubiak and defensive coordinator Rob Leonard reminded him to tone down his intensity and avoid making contact with quarterbacks.

On the second day of camp, Crosby flew into the backfield, forcing quarterback Kirk Cousins to quickly maneuver away from him before throwing to tight end Brock Bowers. Crosby believed he should have been credited with a sack. One thing was certain: Crosby looked like he hadn't missed a beat.

Crosby said it was a blessing to be playing with his teammates after a grueling rehab. He underwent surgery in early January to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury he played through for most of last season. For a little more than a month, he was in a cast and couldn't put pressure on his knee.

Crosby had his cast removed and was off crutches in late February, and throughout his rehab, he continued to preach he was ahead of schedule and would be ready to go by the beginning of training camp. Even when doubts grew when the Ravens nixed the trade agreement that would have sent Crosby to Baltimore due to knee concerns, the Raiders' confidence in his availability remained strong.

Crosby accomplishing his goal of being fully healthy by camp increased the optimism for the defense. His presence has pushed his teammates and even the coaches. Kubiak said Crosby can ruin a play at any moment, so he has to keep the 28-year-old in mind when installing plays ahead of practice.