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Raiders' Maxx Crosby donates $1 million to Eastern Michigan Athletics, has football field named after him

On3 imageby:Dan Morrison10/30/23

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Maxx Crosby
© Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby will have the football field at Eastern Michigan‘s Rynearson Stadium named after him. This comes after he donated $1 million to Eastern Michigan Athletics.

Crosby announced the donation to his alma mater on Sunday, a day before the Raiders are set to take on the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football.

“First and foremost, Eastern Michigan University holds a very special place in my heart and I am incredibly grateful for the significant role my EMU experience has played in shaping my life as an athlete and as a man,” Maxx Crosby said.

“Without the opportunity to attend EMU, I would not have met my wife, Rachel, who has given me the most beautiful gift imaginable in our daughter, Ella. Without EMU, I wouldn’t have the lifelong friends that now serve as advisors and business partners. Without EMU, I may not have ever had the opportunity to achieve my dream of playing in the National Football League. With an immense amount of humility and gratitude for the continued support of the administration, teachers, coaches, athletes, and students, I am committing to a $1 million gift to Eastern Michigan University Athletics.”

Maxx Crosby’s wife, Rachel Washburn, was a soccer player at Eastern Michigan in her own right. he was also on hand to help make the donation.

That donation was accepted by Athletic Director Scott Wetherbee. He also explained where the money would go while accepting it.

“With his remarkable $1 million donation, Maxx is helping us launch Phase Two of the Championship Building Plan that will forever leave an indelible mark on our program,” Wetherbee said. “When he came back this summer for the Champions 4 Life Series, we had great conversations about his and Rachel’s desire to make an impact on our athletic programs. Their dedication to our Athletic Department’s future is nothing short of game-changing. We’re deeply thankful for their commitment and passion for championing excellence in every aspect.”

Maxx Crosby signed a massive contract with the Raiders in 2022, worth $95 million with $53 million guaranteed. He has been a Pro Bowler twice in his career and was a two-time All-MAC selection while at Eastern Michigan. Today, he looks back at his time as a student-athlete at Eastern Michigan fondly.

“I am a firm believer of the power of education and sports, and personally serve as an example of how they can positively impact both individuals and communities,” Crosby added.

“By investing in EMU Athletics, I hope to contribute to the growth and development of student-athletes, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to realize their dreams on and off-the-field. This gift is not just about the present, but also the future of generations of student-athletes who will benefit from enhanced facilities, scholarships, and support systems that will advance the rich history of the Eastern Michigan University athletic program. My hope is that this donation will create a ripple effect and inspire others to join me in supporting their alma maters or institutions that have made such a significant impact on their lives and communities. Together, we can provide the resources needed to empower future generations to not just chase their dreams but live them.”

To this point in the season, Maxx Crosby has 6.5 sacks for the Raiders. Seemingly, he is on his way to another phenomenal season.