Amid ongoing trade speculation surrounding All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders’ new head coach Klint Kubiak made it clear that the organization intends to retain the seven-year veteran as a vital part of the team’s future. Speaking at his introductory press conference on Tuesday in Henderson, Nevada, Kubiak expressed eagerness to work alongside Crosby once the player recovers from recent knee surgery, emphasizing his value to the organization.
We want him to be a part of our success going forward. There’s no doubt about that,
Kubiak said.
He’s one of the best players in the NFL, so that’s a no-brainer to get to work with Maxx and see him continue to have success with his organization.
Crosby’s importance to the Raiders was further reinforced by team owner Mark Davis, who described Crosby as a longtime Raider with deep roots in the franchise.
Maxx has been a great, great Raider. He is a great Raider. He’s gone through a lifetime of development here for seven or eight years, and he still is a Raider. So, it’s all good,
Davis said following Kubiak’s news conference.
Maxx Crosby’s Current Status and Interaction with New Coach
Although Crosby was present during the press event, he did not take part in the formal introduction alongside teammates like running back Ashton Jeanty, defensive tackle Thomas Booker IV, and left tackle Kolton Miller. Prior to addressing the media, Klint Kubiak met privately with Crosby and was visibly enthusiastic about what he witnessed.
I got a cup of coffee with Maxx this morning. Love talking with him. And look forward to continuing those conversations,
Kubiak shared. The coach is eager to see Crosby’s full recovery from the knee surgery he underwent last month, anticipating his return to form as a cornerstone of the defense.
Trade Rumors and Player’s Perspective on the Raiders’ Rebuild
As the 2026 NFL season approaches, rumors have resurfaced about the possibility of trading Crosby, especially amid the Raiders’ move toward a rebuilding phase. Before Super Bowl LX, Fox Sports suggested that Crosby, now 28, might be traded because he reportedly dislikes being part of a team rebuilding its roster. Additionally, The Athletic reported that Crosby showed interest in joining the New England Patriots under coach Mike Vrabel.
Despite the speculation, Crosby himself has remained largely silent this offseason, adopting a deliberate approach to media engagement. On Friday during an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, he explained his choice to remain quiet in response to swirling rumors.
Now that I’m quiet, I’ve got random people making big statements for me,
Crosby said, dressed in a Raiders sweatshirt and skullcap.
They’re like, ‘Maxx must’ve told them this.’ For me, I just sit back and laugh because I know my truth, and when I go to bed at night, I have a smile on my face because I don’t have to explain nothing to nobody.
He also highlighted his focus on recovery and daily commitment to the team’s facilities.
I’m getting healthy. I’m in the building every single day. I’m in this building from 6 a.m. when it’s dark out, and I’m here until almost 2. … That’s all I care about, so all the noise, that’s news to me sometimes.
Season Challenges and Crosby’s Performance Despite Injury
Crosby’s future with the Raiders appeared uncertain late in the previous season after the club placed him on injured reserve due to a knee injury with only two games remaining. This decision frustrated Crosby and caused him to leave the team facilities. He initially sustained the left knee injury on October 19 during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Nonetheless, Crosby posted strong statistics with 73 tackles, including 28 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks, earning his fifth Pro Bowl selection. His dedication and performance underscore his significance for the Raiders despite ongoing organizational changes.
The Impact of Crosby’s Loyalty Amidst Team Transition
While Crosby has shown steadfast loyalty throughout his career with the Raiders, he is clearly motivated by the desire to compete at the highest level. The organization is entering a rebuilding phase under Klint Kubiak, who is the fifth full-time head coach Crosby has played under since his 2019 draft selection. Crosby’s tenure has yielded only one postseason appearance, adding to his understandable desire for consistent team success.
Should the Raiders decide to trade Crosby, it is expected that he would draw significant interest from other franchises, potentially accelerating Las Vegas’ rebuilding timeline.
Raiders general manager John Spytek addressed the situation last month, acknowledging Crosby’s struggle with being sidelined and affirming the player’s embodiment of Raider values.
I’ve had the opportunity in the last several weeks to spend a lot of time with Maxx, and I think it’s been well documented that he didn’t love the idea of not playing football, and I think you always want that from your best players,
Spytek said.
… I love Maxx; he embodies what a Raider is. I’ve been pretty upfront with that from the day that I sat up here almost a year ago, and I continue to believe that.
Outlook for Maxx Crosby and the Raiders Moving Forward
The Raiders organization clearly values Maxx Crosby as a key contributor and intends to keep him as part of the team’s core. His recovery from knee surgery and willingness to embrace the rebuilding process will influence how the team shapes its roster and competitive prospects in the coming seasons. For Crosby, balancing personal ambitions with the franchise’s evolving strategy will define his role as the Raiders strive to return to playoff contention.
