Raiders lose rookie edge rusher Keyron Crawford to season-ending injury

Raiders rookie defensive end Keyron Crawford was placed on season-ending injured reserve after suffering an ankle injury in the final preseason game against the 49ers, ending his rookie campaign before it began. Drafted No. 67 overall in 2026, Crawford had shown potential in the preseason but will not contribute this season, prompting roster shuffling on the edge. With Crawford out, Malcolm Koonce steps into the primary depth role behindMaxx Crosby and Kwity Paye, while Patrick Johnson provides additional depth as a reserve edge rusher. The injury also leaves Las Vegas thinner at defensive end and emphasizes the challenge of developing young players in a competitive rebuild. Team notes suggest Crosby is expected to log heavy usage as the top edge presence, with the depth chart leaning on Koonce and Johnson to fill in. The 53-man roster move confirms Crawford will not be designated for return, marking a significant early setback for the Raiders’ 2026 draft class.