Raiders players face backlash over pregame gestures

Geno Smith and Maxx Crosby were filmed making obscene gestures toward Seahawks fans as they entered the field before a preseason game in Seattle.

Raiders Smith Crosby Direct Obscene Gestures at Fans in Seattle

Geno Smith and Maxx Crosby were filmed making obscene gestures toward Seattle fans as Las Vegas entered the field for a preseason game in Henderson, Nevada. The gesture happened before kickoff while a fan taunted the players, and one video shows Crosby reacting to the crowd and trying to grab a sign before Smith joined in.

The game finished in a 23 all draw. The incident also references a past case when Detroit safety Brian Branch was fined for a similar gesture toward Packers fans last November, illustrating how actions like this can attract quick social media attention and potential league scrutiny.

Moments like this spread quickly on social media and turn a field moment into a broader discussion about sportsmanship and accountability. It highlights how athletes navigate provocation and how teams manage public perception in a high profile league.

The episode may invite review from the league or accountability from the teams if patterns emerge. It also raises questions about the balance between swagger and respect as the regular season approaches and fans reassess what they want to see from players both on and off the field.

Highlights

Preseason moments like this test how teams balance swagger with accountability.