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Dolphins’ Patrick Paul Faces Huge Maxx Crosby Test in Raiders Opener
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- Dolphins’ Patrick Paul Faces Huge Maxx Crosby Test in Raiders Opener
Jeff Hafley believes team success starts with the offensive line.
The Miami Dolphins could find that out quickly Sunday in their season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders .
Left tackle Patrick Paul and the Dolphins' offensive line will be up against Maxx Crosby , one of the best pass rushers in the NFL.
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"He's a dynamic player," Paul said earlier this week. "So with him, just beating him to a spot, getting your hands on him, getting him off his game.
"He likes to play with a lot of swagger. So just getting him displaced off his game, getting him off his spots, putting your hands on him, being aggressive and just getting him out of his game."
Paul's play took a significant jump in 2025
Paul had a breakthrough season during his first full year as a starter at left tackle. He allowed a 4.33 percent pressure rate, which ranked among the league's best. Paul also surrendered just four sacks and 25 pressures in 17 starts.
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The 6-foot-7 Paul will face Crosby, who is coming off a 10-sack season for the Raiders. Crosby will also line up opposite right tackle Austin Jackson , whose pass protection has been inconsistent when he's been on the field. Jackson has missed 20 games over the past two seasons.
Crosby will put a ton of pressure on the Dolphins' offensive line. He's a relentless edge rusher who uses his technique and motor to win one-on-one matchups. Crosby also rarely leaves the field, as demonstrated by his 935 snaps in 2025, the second-most among edge rushers despite missing two games.
This matchup against Crosby will test Miami's offensive line. The rushing attack, led by De'Von Achane , could be the key to success for the Dolphins this season. Protecting quarterback Malik Willis also will be a must if Miami wants to get its passing game into a rhythm early.
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Crosby is a one-man wrecking crew. If the Dolphins are going to pull off the upset in Vegas, they can't afford to lose track of him for even a second.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
