Maxx Crosby explodes after Dolphins star calls him a "hothead" ahead of opener

M axx Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders are already counting down to the start of the 2026 NFL season , but the rivalry has already begun before the opening kickoff. Miami Dolphins left tackle Patrick Paul stirred the pot by calling Crosby a "hothead." Rather than fueling the war of words, the Raiders' defensive leader took a calm approach.

"I don't know what they're talking about or who is talking about what. It is what it is. We'll see Sunday," Crosby said, according to Vince Sapienza of FOX5 Las Vegas .

At 29 years old, Crosby has established himself as one of the NFL's premier defensive players. Although he was the subject of trade rumors throughout the offseason, he ultimately remained in Las Vegas and will once again serve as the cornerstone of the Raiders' defense.

The star pass rusher enters the new campaign after earning his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl selection. In 2025 , he appeared in 15 games, recording 10 sacks, 73 total tackles, and 45 solo tackles. He has now posted 10 or more sacks in three of the past four seasons, highlighted by the career-high 14.5 sacks he recorded in 2023 .

The Raiders head into 2026 as one of the league's most intriguing teams. While there are still questions surrounding the roster, 2026 No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza is widely expected to take over as the starting quarterback at some point during the season. With Mendoza and Ashton Jeanty viewed as the foundation of the franchise's offensive future, Las Vegas hopes to build a long-term contender, while Crosby remains the heart and soul of a defense expected to lead the way.

The Raiders will open the season this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins in a matchup that promises plenty of intensity from the opening snap, with Crosby and Patrick Paul set to meet on the field after their pregame exchange of comments.