“I was in shock: Raiders DE Maxx Crosby recounts awkward meeting with LeBron James
Maxx Crosby has become one of the NFL's most feared defensive linemen in five seasons. He can not only intimidate the opposition by his play but also through his words. However, in a recent meeting, NBA star LeBron James refused to be intimidated by the Las Vegas Raiders defensive end.
The Raiders have a history of players who’ll do anything to win, especially on defense. So, it should not come as a surprise that Crosby fits the culture of the Raiders like a glove after they drafted him in the fourth round in 2019.
After Crosby called Indianapolis Colts quarterback Gardner Minshew “little a** boy” to his face in Week 17, the phrase has taken a life of its own. And LeBron didn’t want the same thing to happen to him.
Crosby detailed his interaction with the Lakers forward at a game recently on his podcast, "The Rush":
“He's like kind of, you know, bending over, catching his breath. He peeks to his left and just makes awkward eye contact, and I just kept looking at him. And he's like, ‘Better not call me a little ass boy.’ I started laughing. ... I was in shock. Like, LeBron James just spoke to me. I couldn't believe it, but at the same time, I think he knows exactly. That's crazy.”
Maxx Crosby and his co-hosts felt humbled by this interaction with James. The three-time Pro Bowler is making the best out of his offseason, with an eye on the next season as well.
The draft excites Maxx Crosby
The Raiders are going through the rebuilding process under a new coach this season. For this process to be successful, Maxx Crosby understands the importance of this week's 2024 NFL draft.
"I really don’t know," Crosby said about the draft on his podcast a week ago. "'I’m excited. I’m like a kid when it comes to this s***. I like being involved!”
The Raiders possess eight picks, one in each of the first six rounds, and then a couple of picks in Round 7. With the wait for the draft day less than a week, Maxx Crosby will soon find out his new teammates.