Maxx Crosby never wavered in his commitment to the Raiders, and now the team has returned the favor. By locking up their defensive cornerstone with a record-setting extension, Vegas sent a clear message: they see Crosby as a foundational piece for years to come.
For a team that has spent the past few seasons in quarterback limbo, this kind of stability is rare. Crosby’s deal is a long-term investment, and that should influence how the Raiders approach their next big move-especially at quarterback. With the No. 6 pick in the draft and plenty of cap space, the team has options. But bringing in Aaron Rodgers? That’s a move they should avoid.
A quarterback carousel that needs to stop
Rodgers is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, but at 41 years old, he’s no longer the player who once dominated the league. His injury-shortened season with the Jets raised even more concerns about whether he can still be an elite difference-maker.
Meanwhile, the Raiders have a golden opportunity to do something they haven’t done in years-draft and develop a quarterback. Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) are the top two prospects, but neither will be available at No. 6. If the Raiders truly want a franchise passer, they’ll have to move up to get one. And they should.
A young quarterback on a rookie contract would allow Vegas to spend big elsewhere-strengthening the offensive line, adding weapons, and keeping the defense strong. Investing in a veteran like Rodgers, on the other hand, would tie up cap space while kicking the can down the road yet again.
Maxx Crosby didn’t sign up for more mediocrity
Crosby made it clear he wants to be part of a winning culture. He even called the idea of Rodgers joining the Raiders “legendary” on his podcast, The Rush. But legendary doesn’t always mean smart.
The Raiders have spent too much time searching for quick fixes at quarterback. A veteran stopgap might get them to nine wins, but it won’t get them to the Super Bowl. Crosby is locked in until 2029, and the best way to maximize his prime years is by pairing him with a young QB who can grow alongside him.
A real franchise quarterback is worth the risk. If the Raiders play it safe and settle for a short-term solution, they could find themselves back in the same spot a year from now-searching for answers. And that’s a cycle they can’t afford to repeat.
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