Raiders Defense Surges Into Top-5 in Sacks, Anchoring Playoff Push
Maxx Crosby and a revitalized defensive front have turned Allegiant Stadium into a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks through the first three weeks of the 2026 season.
Through three weeks of the 2026 NFL season, the Las Vegas Raiders defense has quietly assembled one of the most dominant pass-rushing units in the AFC. With 18 sacks on the year, the Silver and Black rank fifth in the league — a remarkable turnaround from a unit that struggled to generate pressure in recent seasons.
Maxx Crosby continues to be the engine of the operation. The All-Pro edge rusher already has 6.5 sacks and 12 quarterback hurries, drawing double-teams on nearly every snap and creating opportunities for teammates to feast on single coverage.
"We've been locked in since training camp. This is just the beginning." — Maxx Crosby
"We've been locked in since training camp," Crosby said after Sunday's win. "Everybody on this defense knows their assignment and we're executing at a high level. This is just the beginning."
Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has deployed a variety of exotic blitz packages that have kept opposing offensive coordinators guessing. The Raiders have generated pressure on 38% of opposing dropbacks — second only to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West.
The secondary has also stepped up, with cornerback DJ Turner recording two interceptions and three pass breakups. Safety Marcus Epps has been a steady presence in the middle of the field, limiting big plays over the top.
With a crucial divisional matchup against the Chiefs looming in Week 4, the Raiders defense will face its stiffest test yet. But if the first three weeks are any indication, this unit is ready for the challenge.