Oakland Raiders: Projected rookie roles, statistics for 2019 season

DE Maxx Crosby (No. 106 overall)

Maxx Crosby has quickly become a fan favorite. He’s the second of three defensive ends selected in this class. The Eastern Michigan product created buzz for himself at his pro day, per DraftAnalyst’s Tony Pauline.

"As far back as November, I stated during several podcasts that Crosby would move into the second day of the draft with a strong showing during predraft workouts. That was the narrative from teams at pro day, who believe Crosby won’t get out of the third round."

Crosby was available early in the fourth round, which is great value at 106. He logged 41 tackles for a loss and 20 sacks over the last three terms as a collegian. Guenther will find ways to use his athleticism when the rookie defensive end isn’t rushing the passer.  The former Eagle shows great awareness and attacks the football, logging eight forced fumbles between his sophomore and junior terms.

The Raiders have Key and Benson Mayowa likely vying for snaps at defensive end; Crosby will join the mix. Expect Guenther to use all three in the upcoming season. Mayock wants the rookie to add power and strength through the offseason, per his post-draft press conference.

“So he has some twitch,” Mayock said. “He has length, he has twitch. He has a great motor. What he doesn’t have yet is power. He doesn’t have strength yet, and he needs to develop that.”

If he satisfies that demand, he could have a moderate impact in the second half of the year.

Projection: 20 solo tackles, 4 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, 2 pass breakups