BALTIMORE -- Michael Crabtree ran a short slant and, seeing off coverage, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson fired a pass his way for an easy touchdown.
Crabtree crossed the goal line without resistance, launched the ball skyward and moved two fingers across his facemask for a Kenny Powers salute.
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SIGN UP HERE Raiders fans know the routine well. Crabtree did it regularly during three seasons in silver and black that resurrected his career. He scored 25 touchdowns for the Raiders as Derek Carr’s favorite red-zone target.
Crabtree was cut this offseason after a disappointing 2017 season, where there was tension at times between him and Carr. He was let go so the Raiders could sign Jordy Nelson, and the Ravens quickly signed Crabtree to their squad.
Crabtree downplayed the revenge factor in Sunday’s meet-up, but he had to enjoy scoring against his former Raiders teammates in a 34-17 Ravens win at M&T Bank Stadium.
Crabtree said he enjoyed his time in Oakland, and he reiterated that sentiment after the victory.
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“I feel the same as I would against anybody,” Crabtree said. “As a player, you can’t get caught up in who you’re playing.
“I have nothing against the Raiders. As a matter of fact, I love the Raiders. I love them all. I love the guy upstairs, Mark Davis. I have nothing but love for him. Ain't no bad blood between anybody. I just go out here and play ball."
Crabtree was greeted by several former teammates after the game, showing several friendships remain intact despite his move to Baltimore.
“They’re my friends. I do stuff with them in Dallas (for his free football camp) in the offseason. They show up,” Crabtree said. “Ex-players and guys who are playing there now. It’s all love. It’s a brotherhood. This isn’t just football. This goes further than that. I appreciate them all.”