Oakland Raiders rookies contributing in a big way in 2019

Maxx Crosby

Maxx Crosby was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the draft, a pick that Mike Mayock was incredibly excited about on draft day. After five weeks of football, we can see why.

Crosby has had the most impact on defense out of all the rookies, as he has made play after play for this team. Crosby is gaining more and more playing time each week, and with the injury of Arden Key, Crosby is going to be on the field even more once the Raiders return from their bye.

Crosby has played well all season, but the impact he had on the games against Indianapolis and Chicago can not go unnoticed. In Week 4, the Colts were driving down the field, entering the red zone as Indianapolis attempted to mount a comeback. As a Colts receiver ran down the field on a screen pass attempting to get a first down on third and long, Crosby came from behind and forced a fumble, giving the Raiders the ball back in a crucial part of the game.

In Week 5 against the Bears, Crosby recorded his first career sack, and although his stat sheet is not filled with numbers, his presence has been felt all year. Crosby has been pressuring the quarterback all year, as well as batting down passes at the line all game long. Crosby may be the steal of the draft, and he could be making his way into the starting lineup soon.