Raiders' Wilkins Excited to Work With Crosby

Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and defensive end Maxx Crosby should make for a dominant tandem against opposing offenses this coming season.

The football world made quite a big deal about a Las Vegas Raiders defensive line that will consist of two of the league's most disruptive defensive linemen: defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and edge rusher Maxx Crosby. 

And rightfully so.

Wilkins, who officially signed with the Raiders on Thursday, is also greatly intrigued by the idea.

"We [Wilkins and Crosby] definitely talked a little bit just about the possibilities and things we can do, but it's going to have to be built," Wilkins said at his introductory press conference on Thursday. "It's definitely a process and a journey. It's just going to have to start with just getting to know each other better. 

Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) and defensive end Maxx Crosby should make for a dominant tandem against opposing offenses / © Kirby Lee | 2023 Nov 5

"And not just us, but again, it's going to be a team effort. It's going to take all 11 guys on defense at all times to make this thing work and to do good things here. So, definitely just looking forward to the possibilities and just being one piece of the puzzle. 

"No one man is better than the other, I'm just a small piece and I'm excited to be a part of it." 

Wilkins was the focal point up front for opposing offensive lines during his time with the Miami Dolphins. Now, he will have the benefit of lining up alongside Crosby, who requires considerable attention as well.

"Well, that's kind of left to be seen, but just the possibilities, there's a lot of possibilities," Wilkins said. "But like I said, we're going to have to put the work in and build a rapport, that's very important just to get around the other guys on the defense and the other D-linemen. It's going to be -- we're all working together in this thing; the secondary guys, the linebackers, there's a lot of guys on this defense.

"Obviously, Maxx [Crosby] is a big one that I'm excited to play with him. And I'm just looking, like I said, looking forward to being part of this."

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.

Ensure you follow on X (Twitter) @HondoCarpenter and IG @HondoSr and never miss another breaking news story again. Sign up RIGHT HERE for our 100% FREE newsletter that comes thrice a week and delivers all our best stories.

Please let us know your thoughts when you like our Facebook page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.