The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off the 2026 season with a 27-13 win over the Miami Dolphins Sunday at Allegiant Stadium, highlighted by the return of veteran edge rusher Maxx Crosby.

“It was a little extra special today, for sure,” Crosby said of playing in front of the Raiders fans again postgame.

Crosby had spent much of the previous season dealing with an injury, eventually being held out for Las Vegas' final two games. The decision frustrated the 29-year-old because he believed he could continue playing at a high level without putting himself at additional risk.

That situation eventually led to Crosby requesting a trade. The Raiders agreed to send him to the Baltimore Ravens for multiple first-round picks, but the transaction collapsed at the last moment after Baltimore said Crosby failed his physical. The Ravens' concerns indicated that his injury presented more questions than initially expected.

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Instead of leaving Las Vegas, Crosby returned to the Raiders with renewed energy. He had previously expressed some hesitation about leaving the franchise, which made his decision to return to the team and city even more meaningful.

Crosby produced 1.5 sacks, a tackle for loss and three quarterback hits against Miami. His performance also produced a career milestone. Crosby's first sack came jointly with teammate Kwity Paye, giving him 70 sacks at that point and eventually moving his career total to 71 after recording 1.5 sacks in the game.

Las Vegas' defense finished with five sacks, one interception and one forced fumble while limiting the Dolphins to 2-for-10 on third down.

For Crosby, reaching 71 career sacks while helping the Raiders open 1-0 made his return to Las Vegas especially memorable.