Raiders report: Coach rules 2 stars out for Sunday’s home game
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce ruled two of his star players out for Sunday’s game against the Browns at Allegiant Stadium when he spoke before Friday’s practice.
The team’s injury report, released later in the day, confirmed wide receiver Davante Adams is out with a hamstring injury. But edge rusher Maxx Crosby was listed as doubtful with an ankle injury, despite Pierce saying Crosby will “be out” as well.
It’s rare for a player to play in a game after being declared doubtful. Crosby is one of the rare exceptions, as he played against the Chiefs on Nov. 26 despite being given a doubtful tag earlier in the week due to a knee injury.
Crosby, 27, has not missed a game in his career. He played through a high-ankle sprain last week in the Raiders’ 36-22 loss to the Panthers.
Adams, 31, was injured during Thursday’s practice. Pierce said he didn’t know how much time Adams will miss.
“I just know he’s out this week,” Pierce said. “But he’s kind of like Maxx. … You never know how they’ll respond. They’ve been doing this a long time in their career, but I just know for this week, he’ll be out.”
Adams and Crosby aren’t the Raiders’ only injured starters.
Right tackle Thayer Munford Jr. is listed as doubtful with knee and ankle injuries. Like Crosby, Pierce said Munford will not play Sunday.
Linebacker Divine Deablo will miss his second straight game with an oblique injury. Tight end Michael Mayer is out for personal reasons.
Rookie cornerback Decamerion Richardson remains sidelined with a hamstring injury he’s had all year.
Linebacker Kana’i Mauga (calf) and running back Ameer Abdullah (back) both did not participate in Friday’s practice. They are questionable.
The Browns will be without several players as well.
Tight end David Njoku (ankle), running back Pierre Strong Jr. (hamstring) and offensive tackles Jack Conklin (hamstring) and Jedrick Wills Jr. (knee) have all been ruled out.
Defensive end Myles Garrett, the reigning defensive player of the year, was a full participant in Friday’s practice and will not have a designation for Sunday’s game despite dealing with foot, thigh and Achilles injuries.
Mattison honored
Running back Alexander Mattison was named the Week 4 Community MVP by the NFL Players Association.
Mattison provided a VIP experience for two families during the Raiders’ loss to Carolina, which included tickets, pre- and postgame passes, transportation and a meet-and-greet.
His I AM GIFTED foundation also provided each family with $1,000.
“Being named the NFLPA Community MVP is a tremendous honor and a reminder of why I do this work,” Mattison said in a statement. “Through my charitable efforts, I aim to uplift and empower individuals and families, creating moments and opportunities that leave a lasting impact.”
Mattison, in addition to the recognition, earned a $10,000 donation to his foundation. He also became eligible to receive the NFLPA’s annual Community MVP award, which is given out at the end of the year.
Switching sides
Tight end Harrison Bryant scored a late touchdown to give Cleveland the lead the last time the Raiders played the Browns on Dec. 20, 2021.
It didn’t last. Bryant, now with the Raiders, remembered what happened next.
“I’m pretty sure Daniel (Carlson) kicked a game winner in the last seconds to beat us after that,” Bryant said. “That was a crazy week.”
The game was delayed several days after the Browns had a COVID-19 outbreak. They ultimately hosted the Raiders on a Monday without their top two quarterbacks, their leading receiver and coach Kevin Stefanski.
Bryant’s touchdown came with 3:45 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Raiders then drove down the field and set up Carlson for a game-winning, 48-yard field goal as time expired.
“It was a little windy and that was to keep us alive for playoffs. Gritty game that came down to the wire. Me and Harrison have talked about that. Sorry, Harrison,” Carlson said. “But he’s a Raider now, so he should be happy.”
The Browns are visiting Allegiant Stadium for the first time Sunday. Bryant said the game should have a fun atmosphere with Cleveland’s famous “Dawg Pound” in town.
“I would say they’re pretty similar to the Raiders fans,” Bryant said. “They’re super loyal and love their team. It’s two great fanbases, so hopefully we can put a great game on for them.”
Contact Adam Hill at ahill@reviewjournal.com. Follow @AdamHillLVRJ on X.