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via Imago

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via Imago

For the Las Vegas Raiders, the 2024 season was forgettable wasn’t it? I mean, they finished last with a 4-13 record, placing them in last spot in the AFC West. Despite their assertive 2-2 start, it went downhill for them, but they had some bright spots as well. Especially Maxx Crosby, who was giving it all for them. But hey, it’s a team sport, and you need all players to stand up. Having said this do you know about the defensive end’s roots that go all the way to Albania? Well, if you do, you need to know about his parents too, who supported him in his journey.

Yep, Crosby’s journey is quite a story especially his Mom, who is an immigrant of Serbian descent. His father Bryan had also seen his own share of struggles. You know having parents like these whom you see finding their way all through your childhood gives that motivation to go the extra mile. With all the hassle, they’ve produced a tough athlete who’s become a force for the LV Raiders.

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Who is Maxx Crosby’s mom?

Maxx Crosby’s mom Vera is a total superstar in his life. She’s a first-generation immigrant with Serbian and Albanian roots who started her grind at a slaughterhouse when she was just 10 years old. Maxx straight-up says his “soldier mentality” on the field comes from her relentless work ethic. She hustled nonstop for years to make sure the family had what they needed, showing Maxx how to put in the work and never back down. Vera met Maxx’s father at a restaurant and from there on their love story started.

Do you know why Maxx has an extra ‘X’ in his name? For this, you’ve to give credit to his mom. When Maxx was born, he weighed 11 pounds, 9 ounces! His mom had planned to name him “Max,” but with his XXL size, she doubled up the letters and made it “Maxx.” She’s been by his side through all the highs and lows, even joining him at the NFL Honors in Miami back in 2020. Maxx is super proud of his heritage, especially his Albanian and Serbian roots, all thanks to his mom’s influence.

Who is the Raiders DE’s dad?

Maxx’s dad Bryan Crosby was all about the game. He played football and basketball during his college days at Albion College and won several awards like the 1985 B’nai B’rith Scholar-Athlete and some MIAA titles. He even made All-State at Comstock High School back in ’85. Though he didn’t make it to the NFL, Bryan’s passion for sports was strong, and he passed all that down to Maxx. Things took a turn when Maxx was 10. The recession hit hard, and Bryan had to find work elsewhere. So, they moved to Colleyville, Texas, to be closer to Maxx’s granddad and start fresh.

 

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Bryan never stopped supporting Maxx, he’d take him to the park for early morning training before school, running drills, and sprints. One game, Maxx had a tough match, but he could always hear his dad’s voice cheering him on. After the game, Bryan told him, “You played like a warrior out there. Keep pushing, son.” That stuck with Maxx and fueled his drive, Bryan’s influence was all about grit, determination, and never giving up—a legacy that Maxx carries with him every day.

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Where did Maxx Crosby grow up?

Maxx Crosby’s story starts in Lapeer, Michigan. That’s where he spent his early years before his family made a big move to Colleyville, Texas. It was in Colleyville that Maxx started to shine on the football field. He went to Colleyville Heritage High School, putting in the work and catching the eye of college scouts. Despite only getting one offer—from Eastern Michigan University—he didn’t let that hold him back. Maxx straight-up says, “I grew up insecure. I had run-ins with older kids, was picked on. It almost felt like I’m that middle child that never was the guy. It made me sick, having people treat me badly. I never wanted to be like that, no matter what.”

At Eastern Michigan, Maxx became a standout player, winning first-team All-MAC honors in ’17 and ’18. His hard work caught the attention of the NFL scouts, and in 2019, he got drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round. His rookie season was great though, especially that first career sack against the Chicago Bears in Week 5. Maxx kept grinding, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors over the years.

As for his future, it’s a bit up in the air. Maxx has two years left on his contract, but there’s no guaranteed money left. With the Raiders in a rebuilding phase, there’s a lot of chatter about whether he’ll stick around or get traded. Maxx is just focused on his growth and taking it day by day. He’s open to talks about his future, but for now, he’s all about getting back to full strength and doing what he can for the team.

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