The Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders renew their rivalry this Sunday, with the spotlight firmly on the matchup between Patrick Mahomes and Maxx Crosby.
Crosby has built a history of disrupting Mahomes in Las Vegas, recording six career sacks against the Chiefs quarterback.
That includes a memorable performance on Monday Night Football in 2022, when Kansas City escaped with a narrow 30-29 victory despite Crosby’s relentless pressure throughout the contest.
On Wednesday, Mahomes addressed reporters and offered his perspective on the unique dynamic between himself and Crosby.
“It’s a ton of respect,” Mahomes said. “When I talk to him outside of football, we’re friends. You wouldn’t even see what happens on the football field, but he’s a type of competitor like me. When you go on that football field, it’s whatever it takes to win, and you’re going to leave everything on the football field.”
"He's a type of competitor like me."
Mahomes has a ton of respect for DE Maxx Crosby. We're excited to see them battle it out at Arrowhead on Sunday 👀 pic.twitter.com/5wNJIxffBP
— Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) October 15, 2025
The two have developed a friendship away from football, but that connection doesn’t carry over once they step onto the field on game day.
The Raiders have managed just two victories against the Chiefs during Crosby’s tenure in Las Vegas, but Mahomes refuses to overlook his impact.
The Chiefs quarterback praises Crosby as a culture-builder who elevates everyone around him.
Players like Crosby set the tone for their entire team, forcing opponents to bring their absolute best effort just to stay competitive.
Crosby holds similar admiration for Mahomes ahead of their Week 7 showdown.
He struggles to put the feeling into words but acknowledges the unique energy that exists when they face each other.
Having competed against some of football’s greatest athletes, Crosby recognizes Mahomes belongs in that conversation.
Both players remain fully focused on doing whatever it takes to secure a victory for their respective teams.
NEXT: Chiefs Hint At 'Heavy Workload' For Returning Star WR