Josh Cribbs has made an NFL career off big plays. Currently sharing the NFL record of kickoff returns for touchdowns, Cribbs has excelled on a unit that most players just use as a stepping stone to make an NFL team. Cribbs does not use special teams as a way to make a team, he uses it as a way to create his legacy. Now with the Oakland Raiders, Cribbs is continuing his kickoff success, while spending some time on offense.
Cribbs brings a veteran presence to the special team unit in Oakland. Not only does he excel in the return, but he has become known for his blocking skills and his "personal protector" mentality on the punt team. He is also seeing time as a wide receiver in certain offensive schemes. It is that versatility that has head coach Dennis Allen thrilled to have Cribbs on the team.
Allen finds it refreshing when a player like Cribbs decides to focus on special teams instead of just using that unit as a stepping stone. Allen said to the Contra Costa Times that Cribbs understands his niche in the league and is excelling in it.
"I've seen all-time great players in this league come and go," Cribbs said. "I'm hoping to make my 10th season next year. I won't abandon special teams, and special teams won't abandon me."
Cribbs was released by the Cleveland Browns following offseason knee surgery. At 30-years-old he is on the wrong side of the NFL age spectrum, but the Raiders do not seem to mind that. While still recovering, Cribbs was simply a spectator at the team's first preseason game, but is still finding ways to mentor young players while he heals.
"It seems like every other day he's writing an email to the whole special-teams group to tell us something," long snapper Jon Condo said. "His message is always, 'If you've got questions, then ask. If you don't want to reply to this email, talk to me after a meeting. Don't be afraid to talk to me. Don't be afraid to get better.' "
Cribbs joins a small group of veterans on the Oakland Raiders roster that are expected to help the young team develop into the future. Cribbs brings a voice to special teams much like Charles Woodson does for the defense. It is only a matter of time before Cribbs is back on the field and lighting up Oakland with his return skills.
