đ˘ Breaking News: Maxx Crosby Takes on Assistant GM Role at EMU Amid Raiders Offseason Leave; Pete Carroll Confirms Support đ
In a surprising and inspiring development, Las Vegas Raidersâ Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby has temporarily stepped away from team duties during the 2025 NFL offseason to pursue a meaningful new role. Crosby has accepted a position as Assistant General Manager of the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) football program, his alma mater, marking a first-of-its-kind move by an active NFL player.
đ§ž A Unique Career Move
Crosby, who has established himself as one of the leagueâs most dominant edge rushers, is blazing a new trail off the field. His new role at EMU includes a range of responsibilities:
â˘Talent evaluation: Helping identify and recruit high school prospects
â˘Financial advising: Supporting student-athletes in making smart financial decisions
â˘Player mentorship: Sharing his experience and offering career guidance
â˘Alumni and fundraising initiatives: Expanding the programâs donor and support base
This step is more than symbolicâCrosby is expected to play a hands-on leadership role within the EMU football program while continuing to prepare for the NFL season.
đŁ Pete Carroll Confirms and Supports Crosbyâs Decision
New Raiders head coach Pete Carroll officially confirmed Crosbyâs temporary offseason absence during a team press conference. Rather than expressing concern, Carroll praised Crosbyâs commitment to personal growth and giving back to the sport:
âMaxx is one of the most passionate and driven individuals Iâve ever worked with. His dedication to Eastern Michigan is inspiring, and we fully support him taking this opportunity. Heâll be back with us soonâfired up and ready to lead.â
Carroll emphasized that Crosby remains 100% committed to the Raiders and that the team is maintaining open communication during his brief time away.
đ A Deep Bond with EMU
Crosbyâs relationship with Eastern Michigan University is deeply personal. He starred at EMU from 2015 to 2018 before being drafted by the Raiders. In 2023, he donated $1 million to the programâone of the largest gifts in school historyâand recently launched the âMaxx Matchâ campaign, pledging to match donations up to $100,000 in support of student-athlete development.
In his own words:
âEMU gave me a chance when nobody else would. This is about more than footballâitâs about helping young players build something lasting, just like I did.â
đ What It Means for the Raiders
While Crosbyâs offseason absence is notable, it is not expected to impact his availability for training camp or the 2025 NFL season. In fact, insiders within the Raiders organization suggest that the experience may sharpen Crosbyâs leadership and broaden his football acumenâmaking him an even more valuable asset on and off the field.
Crosby is coming off a career-best season and recently signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension with the Raiders, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. His return will be highly anticipated as the Raiders look to bounce back and make a playoff run under Carrollâs new leadership.
đ Final Thoughts
Maxx Crosbyâs move is a rare blend of ambition, humility, and heart. While his absence may raise eyebrows across the league, itâs clear that both Crosby and the Raiders see this as an opportunity to grow the game, support future athletes, and return even stronger for the season ahead.