New Raiders Coach Wants Star DE Maxx Crosby to Be Part of Team's Future

Klint Kubiak says keeping Crosby is a 'no-brainer' after recent tension between player and team

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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After the Las Vegas Raiders fired head coach Pete Carroll, new head coach Klint Kubiak met with star defensive end Maxx Crosby and expressed his desire to have Crosby be a key part of the team's success going forward. This comes after a reported strained relationship between Crosby and the previous Raiders regime due to how they handled his recent knee injury.

Why it matters

Crosby is one of the best defensive players in the NFL, making the Pro Bowl five times. Keeping him happy and committed to the Raiders is crucial for the team's future success, especially with a new coaching staff in place.

The details

Crosby was placed on injured reserve late last season despite posting videos of himself playing basketball and on a trampoline, which strained his relationship with the team. However, Kubiak said he met with Crosby and 'look[s] forward to continuing those conversations.' Kubiak emphasized that getting Crosby 'to be a part of our success going forward' is a 'no-brainer' given Crosby's elite talent.

  • Crosby was placed on injured reserve in late 2025 despite posting videos of himself being active.
  • The Raiders fired head coach Pete Carroll last month.
  • Kubiak was introduced as the new Raiders head coach on Tuesday.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A five-time Pro Bowl defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who has recorded at least 10 sacks in four seasons.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, hired after leading the Seattle Seahawks' offense to a Super Bowl victory.

Pete Carroll

The former head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders who was fired last month.

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What they’re saying

“Love talking ball with him and look forward to continuing those conversations. I think he was the first one in here this morning working out, so that fired me up.”

— Klint Kubiak, Head Coach, Las Vegas Raiders (Yahoo Sports)

“We want him to be a part of our success going forward. There's no doubt about that. He's one of the best players in the NFL. So that's a no-brainer to get to work with Max and to see him continue to have success with this organization.”

— Klint Kubiak, Head Coach, Las Vegas Raiders (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Kubiak and the Raiders will continue working to repair the relationship with Crosby and ensure he remains a key part of the team's plans going forward.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of maintaining strong relationships between star players and the coaching staff, especially during times of transition. Kubiak's proactive approach to connect with Crosby is a positive sign that the Raiders are committed to keeping their defensive centerpiece happy and productive.