Raiders DE Maxx Crosby 'Ahead of Schedule' in Knee Rehab, Cleared for 2026 Training Camp

Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby has delivered the news the franchise and its fanbase have been waiting for. Speaking on his podcast, The Rush With Maxx Crosby, the Pro Bowler announced that he is entering the final, decisive phase of his rehabilitation from offseason knee surgery. Declaring himself "ahead of schedule," Crosby confirmed he expects to be fully cleared for the start of training camp in late July. "These past few weeks have been incredible," Crosby told his listeners, noting that he finally has his "pep in his step" after a grueling six-month recovery.[1][3]

The positive update marks a triumphant turning point in what has been a chaotic and physically taxing year for the 28-year-old pass rusher. Crosby's ordeal began during Week 7 of the 2025 season when he suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee. Renowned for his relentless motor and durability, Crosby opted to play through the severe discomfort for over two months, continuing to anchor the Las Vegas defensive line even as his mobility deteriorated.[1]

Despite essentially playing on one healthy leg, Crosby still managed to log 935 defensive snaps, racking up 10 sacks, 53 total pressures, and 12 quarterback hits before the Raiders finally intervened. With the team sitting at 3-14 and eliminated from playoff contention, the medical staff placed Crosby on injured reserve on December 27, shutting him down for the final two games to prevent further structural damage.[2]

In January 2026, Crosby underwent surgery to repair the torn meniscus, initiating what he has since called the longest and most challenging rehabilitation process of his professional career. The initial phase of recovery was particularly brutal. Crosby revealed that he was entirely non-weight-bearing for two months, a period he described as "mental warfare." "Everyone knew I was literally on crutches," he explained. "I could not put weight on my foot for two months. People don't understand that."[3]

The physical limitations forced Crosby to adopt a new approach to his offseason preparation. Historically known for running himself to exhaustion during workouts, the edge rusher had to learn patience. "This has forced me to have to take a step back in certain areas and not run 8,000 yards on the field every single day," Crosby admitted. Instead, he focused heavily on the weight room, reporting that he is currently moving more weight than ever before while giving his body the localized rest it requires.[2]

A critical component of his recent progress has been bilateral strengthening. Crosby noted the inherent danger of overcompensating during rehab, where the healthy leg can atrophy while the athlete focuses entirely on the surgically repaired joint. "You have to build that back up, but you also have to keep working on the right leg," he explained, ensuring that neither side falls behind as he prepares for the explosive lateral movements required in the trenches. He has even incorporated boxing back into his routine to sharpen his hand-fighting skills.[1][3]

Crosby's health status became a massive storyline across the NFL landscape in March 2026, when the Raiders reportedly agreed to trade him to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round draft picks. However, the blockbuster transaction collapsed after Baltimore's medical staff flagged concerns over the degenerative nature of Crosby's knee during his physical. The voided trade sent Crosby back to Las Vegas, leaving lingering questions about his long-term durability.

Now, Crosby and the Raiders appear entirely unbothered by Baltimore's assessment. The defensive end was a constant presence at the team's facility during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in June, jogging and stretching with teammates before retreating indoors to continue his physical therapy. Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard and the rest of the coaching staff have monitored his progress closely, confident that their franchise cornerstone will be ready when veterans report to camp on July 28.[2]

As he prepares to rejoin a revamped Las Vegas roster—which now features rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza and veteran Kirk Cousins on offense—Crosby is eager to put the offseason drama behind him. While rumors briefly circulated about a potential trade to the San Francisco 49ers, Crosby has publicly dismissed the idea, reaffirming his commitment to the Silver and Black. For now, his sole focus is crossing the finish line of his rehab and returning to his familiar role as the heartbeat of the Raiders' defense.[1]