Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby faces projections for potential DPOY award

Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby is projected as a candidate for the AP Defensive Player of the Year award in 2026. CBS Sports analyst Douglas Clawson suggests the defensive standout is positioned for a career year, forecasting totals of nearly 100 tackles and over 15 sacks. These projections follow a previous season where injuries limited his performance. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Rob Leonard, the Raiders look to integrate Crosby into an improved defensive unit. Analysts suggest that increasing his sack total while maintaining his current league-leading status in tackles for loss could secure his first career individual defensive honor.

• 4:43 PMYahoo Sports — Is Raiders EDGE Maxx Crosby poised to win his 1st DPOY award in 2026?