Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is entering his ninth season in the NFL after being selected No. 10 overall in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft.

At this stage of his career, Mahomes has seen just about everything. He’s a three-time Super Bowl champion, has played in five Super Bowls, and has gone head-to-head with countless elite players—especially in the competitive AFC West.

In a recent appearance on “Up & Adams with Kay Adams,” Mahomes didn’t hesitate when asked who the toughest pass rusher he’s faced in his NFL career. His answer: Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby.

• Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) greets Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98).Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Crosby, who has a good relationship with Mahomes, has faced the Chiefs quarterback twice a year throughout his career—and has clearly left a lasting impression.

“I have so much respect for all those guys in the league that are about that craft,” Mahomes said. “We’re gonna compete… Obviously, he’s on the other team, so I want to go against him and beat him. I think he’s sacked me the most out of anyone I’ve ever played against, so to me, he’s the best pass rusher I’ve played against. No offense to any other pass rusher, but he’s the best that I’ve gone up against.”

Maxx Crosby was drafted by the Raiders in 2019 as a mid-round pick out of Eastern Michigan and wasn’t expected to make the immediate impact he did. However, he’s quickly developed into one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers—especially known for elevating his play when facing the Chiefs.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) greets Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98).Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Crosby has sacked Patrick Mahomes six times across 12 career matchups, showcasing his ability to disrupt even the league’s best quarterback. Still, Kansas City has dominated the rivalry, holding a 10-2 record against the Raiders in those contests—a reflection of their overall dominance in the AFC West since Mahomes took over as starter.