The Las Vegas Raiders watch one of their rookies get carted away during Thursday night's game vs. San Francisco 49ers
Candice Ward-Imagn Images
The [Las Vegas Raiders](/nfl/las-vegas-raiders) are starting anew with head coach Klint Kubiak and future starting quarterback Fernando Mendoza, but the team needs to be healthy in order to properly lay down a sturdy foundation. Rookie edge rusher Keyron Crawford was [carted to the locker room](https://x.com/ryanmcfadden_/status/2093158648843477478) during Thursday night's preseason matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, per ESPN's Ryan McFadden.
He was ruled out with an ankle injury. The third-round draft pick is supposed to be a key member of a reshaped Vegas defense, so this news is obviously concerning.
It is tough for any player to begin the regular season with physical limitations, but that is especially true for NFL newcomers. Crawford is still trying to grasp defensive coordinator Rob Leonard's system and adapt to life in Las Vegas. He does not need more adversity. This can be a cruel sport, however.
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The 22-year-old out of Arkansas State and Auburn recorded five sacks, 36 combined tackles, nine and a half tackles for loss, one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery for the Tigers last season. If he is healthy for a majority of the 2026 campaign, Crawford should get plenty of opportunities to make his presence known on the Raiders' defensive line.
The Memphis, Tennessee native gets off the edge quick and can nicely maneuver around the offensive line. The NFL is a different animal, but he has the potential to contribute meaningful snaps fairly quickly. This latest development could threaten that objective, however.
Raiders fans should wait for more information regarding Crawford's status before they fret.