The Raiders are facing a major bump on the road as they prepare for their Sunday clash against the Browns. Two of their marquee players will be conspicuously absent from the lineup.
A Sunday Without Stars
The formidable tandem of defensive end Maxx Crosby and wide receiver Davante Adams will be sidelined for Week 4. This unexpected news was confirmed by head coach Antonio Pierce in his Friday press conference, leaving fans and analysts alike in a tizzy.
Crosby’s Ironman Streak Ends
Maxx Crosby, the relentless force and heart of the Raiders’ defense, is grappling with a high ankle sprain. This injury sidelined him from Wednesday and Thursday practices, marking an end to his stunning streak of appearing in 86 straight games since being drafted in 2019’s fourth round. It’s like watching Superman brought down by kryptonite, folks. With 3.0 sacks, five tackles for loss, and five QB hits this season, Crosby’s absence is no small setback for the Silver and Black.
Adams’ Setback
On the flip side, Davante Adams—Raiders’ go-to guy in the air—suffered a hamstring injury during Thursday’s practice session. It’s like a maestro without his baton, just out of rhythm. With 18 catches and 209 receiving yards leading the team this season, Adams’ absence will surely be felt on offense.
Coach Antonio Pierce encapsulated the uncertainty surrounding their recovery timelines: “No, I don’t know [a timeline], I just know he’s out for this week,” Pierce lamented. “But he’s kind of like Maxx. You’ve got to give those guys week-to-week—really, day-to-day. You never know how they respond. They’ve been doing this a long time in their career. But I just know for this week, he’ll be out.”
Additional Injuries Add Woes
As if that wasn’t enough to make any Raiders fan grimace, Pierce also ruled out several other key players. The list reads like a hospital roster:
- Offensive tackle Thayer Munford is nursing knee and ankle injuries.
- Linebacker Divine Deablo is sidelined with an oblique strain.
- Cornerback Decamerion Richardson is grappling with a hamstring issue.
- Tight end Michael Mayer will miss the game due to personal reasons.
These absences raise questions and concern, but they also open the door for unexpected heroes to emerge. Can the Raiders rally without their stars, or will the Browns capitalize on their misfortune? Only Sunday will tell. Stay tuned, football aficionados—this is one rollercoaster you won’t want to miss!
