There was some concern among Las Vegas Raiders fans the past two days when star defensive end Maxx Crosby missed practice Thursday and Friday because of a knee issue that made him limited Wednesday.
Yet, Las Vegas coach Pete Carroll ended any worry Friday afternoon when he said he fully expects Crosby to play Sunday against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium. Kickoff is at 1:05 p.m. PT.
Carroll said the team has been trying to maximize rest time for their star pass-rusher is having another outstanding season. Crosby eight sacks and 23 tackles for loss (including nine in the past two games) this season. So, his presence will be needed Sunday as the Raiders, who have lost six straight games, hope to halt Denver’s nine-game winning streak.
Meanwhile, tight end Michael Mayer and rookie wide receiver Dont’e Thornton have been ruled out. Mayer has an ankle injury that he suffered in Week 12 and caused him to miss the game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Thornton suffered a concussion at the Chargers. This will be Mayer’s fourth missed game this season. He earlier missed two games with a concussion. Carroll said he is hopeful Mayer can play at the the Philadelphia Eagles on December 14.
Ian Thomas and Carter Runyon will backup star tight end Brock Bowers again. Both Tyler Lockett and rookie Jack Bech will likely play more as part of the rotation at wide receiver with Thornton out against Denver. Carroll pointed out that Bech, a second-round pick, should get a lot more playing time this week. His play time has been somewhat sporadic this season.
Also, receiver/special teamer Alex Bachman is out with a thumb injury that has required a cast on his left arm.
The Raiders will release an injury report later Friday with other health news and this post will be updated.