Lapeer native and former Eastern Michigan standout Maxx Crosby, now a star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, grew up as a lifelong Detroit Lions fan.
Like many fans, he yearned for the team to break out of its struggles and become a top contender in the NFL.
However, seeing that transformation unfold while playing for another franchise has left him feeling bittersweet.
During an appearance on Good Morning Football on Friday, Crosby reflected on the Lions’ remarkable resurgence under head coach Dan Campbell.
Since finishing with a 3-13-1 record in Campbell’s first season in 2021, the Lions have achieved three consecutive winning seasons.
They’ve also captured back-to-back NFC North titles and hosted divisional-round playoff games at Ford Field.
Crosby jokingly admitted his frustration about the timing, saying, “I waited my entire childhood for the Lions to be good.
Now that I’m in the league and on a different team, they decide to become Super Bowl contenders.”
Despite his playful complaint, he had high praise for Campbell and the culture he’s built in Detroit.
Crosby shared how former teammates like Amik Robertson, now with the Lions, and Pat O’Connor, a fellow Eastern Michigan alum, rave about playing under Campbell.
“They’ve told me, ‘You have to experience being in a locker room with Coach Campbell. He’s incredible,’” Crosby said.
He added that Campbell’s commitment to his players is unmatched. “He would literally do anything for them. The passion you see in his postgame speeches and interviews is genuine.
That’s exactly who he is.” Crosby also recalled how some doubted Campbell early on due to his unorthodox style, including his infamous “biting kneecaps” comment, but emphasized that the coach’s authenticity and vision have proven them wrong.
The Lions’ transformation has been driven by a collective effort from Campbell, general manager Brad Holmes, owner Sheila Hamp, and a dedicated front office. Detroit has gone from perennial struggles to becoming a powerhouse.
Their 31-9 victory over the Vikings in Week 18 secured the NFC’s top seed for the first time in franchise history, guaranteeing any team wanting a Super Bowl appearance will have to get past Ford Field.
Crosby spoke of his pride in seeing Detroit’s success as someone with deep ties to Michigan.
“My mom, aunts, and uncles were all born and raised in Detroit. Watching this unfold for the city is incredible. The Lions haven’t had this kind of success in so long.”
He also noted how the revitalization extends beyond football, with the Pistons, Red Wings, and Tigers also showing promise.
“I’m out here in Vegas watching it all happen and thinking, ‘Now you want to win? My whole childhood was tough.’”
At 27, Crosby, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, continues to shine for the Raiders, but his heart still roots for the Lions from afar.