Additional Coverage:
- Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins, Maxx Crosby get into scuffle in tense training camp moment (foxnews.com)
During Friday’s practice in Henderson, Nevada, tensions flared between Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby and quarterback Kirk Cousins. Known for his relentless style, Crosby twice hit Cousins’ arm during a team drill, pushing the usually composed quarterback to his limit. After the second hit, Cousins confronted Crosby, grabbing his jersey and exchanging heated words before teammates intervened to separate them.
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak downplayed the incident, calling it a normal part of training camp intensity. “Those are two leaders of our team going at it, so that is part of camp,” Kubiak said.
“Obviously, if you fight in a game and throw a punch, then you’re out. We’ve got to be smart and treat it like a game.”
Tight end Michael Mayer weighed in as well, acknowledging Cousins’ competitive edge while cautioning against physical altercations. “We don’t want to be throwing punches, but on any padded practice day, there’s going to be some tussles,” Mayer said.
“He’s our starting quarterback, and you want him to defend the team and have some edge, which he does. I just don’t want him getting thrown out or flagged.
You’ve got to be able to defend yourself.”
Despite selecting rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, the Raiders have named Cousins as their starting quarterback to open camp. He has taken the majority of first-team reps and is expected to lead the team in their Week 1 season opener against the Miami Dolphins.