LAS VEGAS, NV — With the Las Vegas Raiders undergoing a leadership reset under new management and coaching staff, four standout players are emerging as the heart and soul of the franchise — each vying for what many call the “unofficial title” of locker room leader and team cornerstone.
Punter AJ Cole, kicker Daniel Carlson, defensive end Maxx Crosby, and offensive tackle Kolton Miller have each earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike, not just for their on-field excellence, but for their off-field influence.
AJ Cole: The Special Teams Commander
As one of the league’s premier punters and a consistent All-Pro selection, AJ Cole has brought unmatched discipline and poise to the Raiders’ special teams unit. Teammates describe him as the ultimate professional — calm, collected, and vocal when it counts. His steady presence has made him a respected voice in meetings and on the sidelines, even as a specialist.
Daniel Carlson: The Clutch Voice
Carlson has proven to be more than just one of the most reliable kickers in the NFL. Known for his cool demeanor and precise execution, Carlson commands attention through quiet leadership and unmatched consistency. “He’s a guy you listen to because you know he delivers,” said one team insider. Off the field, Carlson often speaks to younger players about handling pressure and maintaining mental sharpness — attributes he personifies every Sunday.
Maxx Crosby: The Emotional Engine
Perhaps the most visible and vocal of the four, Maxx Crosby has made his case for leadership through relentless energy, passion, and performance. A captain and two-time Pro Bowler, Crosby has become the spiritual heartbeat of the Raiders defense. “Maxx is the guy that fires up the locker room and calls people out when needed,” said a team source. His intensity is infectious — and he’s widely seen as the emotional leader of the team.
Kolton Miller: The Silent Anchor
On the offensive line, Kolton Miller continues to be a quiet but dominant force. As one of the longest-tenured Raiders and a reliable left tackle, Miller leads by example. He’s respected for his consistency, work ethic, and willingness to mentor younger players. While he may not be the loudest voice, his presence carries weight, particularly among offensive linemen and younger offensive talent.
A New Era, A New Voice
As the Raiders look to build a new identity under the ownership influence of Tom Brady and a reshaped front office, leadership on the field will be essential. With no clear successor to long-time emotional leader Derek Carr, these four veterans are stepping into a void — not to claim a captain’s patch, but to shape the soul of the franchise.
As one team executive put it:
“We don’t have just one leader — we have a leadership committee. And that’s a very good thing.”
