Tensions Flare at Raiders Practice as Crosby and Cousins Clash

During a Las Vegas Raiders practice session in Henderson, Nevada, star pass rusher Maxx Crosby disrupted the usually calm demeanor of quarterback Kirk Cousins. The incident occurred on a Friday and showcased Crosby’s knack for getting under opponents’ skin, regardless of the time of year or adversary.

During a team period, Crosby hit Cousins’ arm twice. After the second hit, Cousins, known for keeping his composure, reached a breaking point. He confronted Crosby, grabbing his jersey, and exchanged heated words before other teammates intervened to separate them.

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins warms up during practice at the team’s NFL football training camp on August 4, 2026, in Henderson, Nevada. (AP Photo/John Locher)

After the altercation, Cousins remained on the field, continuing the drive with the first-team offense. Meanwhile, Crosby was directed to the sideline. Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak commented that such scuffles are a part of the training camp environment.

Kubiak stated, “Those are two leaders of our team going at it, so that is part of camp. Obviously, if you fight in a game and throw a punch, then you’re out of the game. We’ve got to be smart and treat it like a game.”

Tight end Michael Mayer lauded Cousins for having an edge while also emphasizing the importance of restraint. Mayer noted that while confrontations are expected during intense practice days, he hopes the starting quarterback avoids actions that could lead to penalties or ejections.

“We don’t want to be throwing punches, but I think on any padded day of camp, there’s going to be some tussles,” Mayer stated. “That’s our starting quarterback right now, and you want him to defend your team and you want him to have some edge to him, which he does. He’s always had since the first day I met him when he came in here. I don’t want him getting thrown out. I don’t want him getting a flag. Nothing like that, but you’ve got to be able to defend yourself.”

Despite selecting Fernando Mendoza as the No. 1 overall draft pick, the Raiders have named Cousins to start camp, taking the majority of first-team practice reps. Expectations are that Cousins will be the starting quarterback for the opening game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 1.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. Stay updated by following Fox News Digital’s sports coverage and subscribing to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.