Raiders Star Maxx Crosby Dismisses Draft Pick Drama Ahead of High-Stakes Giants Game

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby has a clear message about draft position. He does not care about it. Crosby spoke bluntly ahead of his team’s Week 17 game against the New York Giants. The matchup features two of the league’s worst records.

The Giants and Raiders both have only two wins this season. The loser of this game will have the worst record in the NFL. That record comes with the inside track for the top draft pick next spring. According to reports from major sports networks, this is the game’s primary storyline for many analysts.

Why Players Like Crosby Reject the “Tank” Narrative

Crosby’s comments were direct and unfiltered. He told reporters his job is to be the best defensive end in the world. His focus is on leadership and consistent performance for his teammates. The business of draft picks, he stated, is for the front office and coaches.

This perspective is common among NFL players. Playing to lose for a future draft selection undermines competitive culture. For athletes fighting for roster spots and pride, winning the current game is everything. The Raiders’ effort against the Giants will be a testament to that professional ethos.

The Bigger Picture Beyond a Single Draft Slot

While the No. 1 pick offers leverage, history shows it guarantees nothing. Building a winning team requires more than a high draft position. It demands player development, strong coaching, and a resilient culture within the locker room.

For fans, Crosby’s stance is a reminder of what matters on the field. Players compete to win every Sunday. The long-term rebuild is managed elsewhere. This game will be a hard-fought contest between two teams eager to end their season with a victory, not a calculated loss.

The showdown between the Giants and Raiders is about present pride, not future prospects. Maxx Crosby embodies that competitive spirit completely. His focus remains solely on dominating his opponent, regardless of the draft implications.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What are the NFL draft order rules?

The draft order is primarily based on the previous season’s win-loss record. The team with the worst record typically selects first. Strength of schedule is used as a tiebreaker for teams with identical records.

Has Maxx Crosby always been with the Raiders?

Yes. The Raiders drafted Crosby in the fourth round in 2019. He has become the defensive cornerstone and a team captain through his relentless play and work ethic.

Do NFL teams actually try to lose games?

Organizational “tanking” is rare in the NFL. While front offices may make roster decisions for the future, coaches and players are always incentivized to win. A losing culture can damage a franchise for years.

What happened with the Texans and the No. 1 pick?

In 2022, the Houston Texans won their final game. That victory cost them the top overall draft selection. The team chose to build momentum with a win rather than secure the first pick.

Why is the No. 1 pick so valuable?

It gives a team first choice of any eligible player. It also provides tremendous trade value. A team can auction the pick to others seeking a franchise quarterback, often accumulating extra draft capital.

Trusted Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, ESPN, NFL Network.