The Las Vegas Raiders disciplined defensive end Maxx Crosby and quarterback Kirk Cousins for their roles in a scuffle during Friday’s training camp practice, the team confirmed on Saturday.
Both players were held out of Saturday’s practice as a result of the incident, which occurred during a team period at Friday’s session. The confrontation began after Crosby made contact with Cousins’ arm during a play, prompting the quarterback to confront the defender. The two exchanged words before teammates intervened to separate them.
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak addressed the altercation after the fact, framing it as part of training camp dynamics while emphasizing the importance of adhering to game-like discipline.
"Those are two leaders of our team going at it, so that is part of camp," Kubiak said. "Obviously, if you fight in a game and throw a punch in game, then you're out of the game. So we've got to be smart and treat it like a game."
Crosby’s physicality with offensive players was noted in multiple reports as a contributing factor to the incident. According to The Athletic’s Sam Warren, Crosby had been involved in similar instances earlier in the day and during previous practices. Cousins reportedly took issue with Crosby’s repeated physicality, which may have escalated the situation.
The Raiders’ organization has not disclosed the specific disciplinary actions taken against Crosby or Cousins beyond the missed practice time. Kubiak reiterated that the team is treating the incident as it would a game scenario, where such altercations would result in penalties or ejections.
Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders’ rookie quarterback selected with the No. 1 overall pick, has been competing for snaps but remains in a backup role behind Cousins, who is slated as the starter for the upcoming season. Mendoza’s performance in camp has drawn attention, particularly after a rough outing early in the week. His subsequent practices have shown improvement, according to team observers.
Defensive tackle Tonka Hemingway, a second-year player, has emerged as a candidate to bolster the Raiders’ interior defensive line, which has been a point of concern. Hemingway’s play has drawn praise from coaches and teammates as he seeks to secure a larger role in the defense.
The Raiders’ training camp has also featured other notable developments, including the resolution of Crosby’s offseason saga. After reports suggested he was on the verge of being traded to the Baltimore Ravens, the deal was voided due to medical concerns discovered during Crosby’s physical and MRI. He subsequently returned to the Raiders for the 2024 season.
The team’s focus now shifts to maintaining discipline and cohesion as the preseason approaches, with Kubiak emphasizing the need for players to channel competitive energy appropriately.