Maxx Crosby‘s tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders may be approaching its end, as sources indicate the team is open to trading its premier edge rusher, though the asking price is expected to be substantial. Interest in Crosby has emerged from multiple franchises, following reports that league executives have renewed inquiries after initially exploring trade options at the NFL Scouting Combine.
The trade speculation intensified after the Raiders shut Crosby down for the final two games of the 2025 regular season.
The decision reportedly frustrated the 28-year-old, particularly before a matchup against the New York Giants, a game fans dubbed the Tank Bowl.
The team finished 3-14, securing the first overall draft pick and signaling the beginning of a rebuild. Selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top pick is projected, but moving Crosby could also be part of a strategy to retool around younger talent.
Crosby‘s potential desire to leave Vegas stems from both performance and organizational factors.
Despite being recognized as one of the NFL‘s top pass rushers, his seven-year tenure has yielded just one playoff appearance and repeated leadership changes.
Cowboys battle Bears for Crosby
Attention now turns to potential landing spots if the Raiders opt to trade Crosby.
Two franchises that have repeatedly emerged as candidates are the Chicago Bears and the Dallas Cowboys.
The Bears present a compelling option. Quarterback Caleb Williams reportedly maintains a close rapport with Crosby, and the organization has a history of investing in premier pass rushers, previously trading for Khalil Mack.
With Ben Johnson at the helm, the franchise appears positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in 2026.
The Cowboys face a more urgent defensive need, having parted ways with Micah Parsons last year.
Owner Jerry Jones has already adjusted the coaching structure, bringing in Christian Parker and reshaping the defensive staff. Additional roster moves could follow.
Dallas also holds substantial draft assets, including two first-round selections. After posting one of the league’s poorest defensive performances in 2025, acquiring Crosby would align with the team’s strategic priorities.
Whether the Cowboys would meet the Raiders‘ high asking price remains uncertain.
Schultz noted that league insiders believe the Raiders are open to trading Crosby, though no deal has materialized.
Since his shutdown at the end of last season, talk regarding his future has continued to grow, reinforcing the perception that his time in Las Vegas may soon conclude.
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