Maxx Crosby has become a key target for the New England Patriots as they look to strengthen their pass rush, but acquiring the star edge defender could cost more than many anticipated. The Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly seeking a trade package similar to what the Dallas Cowboys received for Micah Parsons, signaling a steep price for Crosby’s services.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed that the Raiders want a “Micah Parsons-type package” for Crosby. The Cowboys famously traded Parsons to the Green Bay Packers before the 2025 NFL season, securing Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round draft selections in 2026 and 2027.
Raiders Unwilling to Part Easily and Expect Top Value
According to Schefter’s interview on 97.5 The Fanatic’s Kincade and Salciunas show, the Raiders are reluctant to trade Crosby at all, but if they do, the compensation must mirror a top-tier deal like that of Parsons. Schefter stated bluntly,
“I was told that the Raiders don’t want to trade him and that if they even contemplated it, it would take a Micah Parsons-type package.”
However, he also tempered expectations about that lofty asking price and whether such a deal will happen:
“Do I think they’re getting two ones and a player? No. Do I think that they’re going to want to trade him? No. Do I think he’ll be traded?… It’ll change by the week, but it’s certainly possible.”
Crosby’s Injury History and Age Complicate Trade Value
Despite Crosby’s undeniable talent, the asking price of two first-round picks plus an impact player raises questions, especially given his injury history and age. Entering his age-29 season, Crosby has battled multiple injuries, including eight surgeries over seven years. He recently underwent left meniscus surgery in 2025 and a season-ending ankle operation in 2024.
These physical concerns may give the Raiders pause amid trade negotiations, particularly as Crosby’s long-term durability remains uncertain.
Ongoing Tensions Impact Crosby-Raiders Relationship
Compounding the situation is Crosby’s reported dissatisfaction with the Raiders’ communication regarding his knee injury last December, which has strained the relationship between player and team. Albert Breer of The MMQB highlighted that significant mending must occur if the Raiders intend to retain Crosby, who reportedly does not want to endure another team rebuild. Jay Glazer of FOX Sports also noted Crosby’s reluctance to be part of another long-term rebuilding effort.
Still, the Raiders have tools to entice Crosby to stay, as Schefter pointed out:
“If you’re the Raiders, you can go to Maxx Crosby now and say, ‘Hey, we just hired this great young coach Klint Kubiak,’”
adding,
“‘We’re going to have the No. 1 overall pick in (Indiana quarterback) Fernando Mendoza. We’ve got $90 million in cap space. You’re a Raider. Don’t you want to be here?’ That doesn’t seem like a hard sell to me.”
Patriots Weigh Decision as Crosby Remains a Prime Option
From New England’s perspective, Crosby represents an ideal acquisition if the Raiders eventually soften their demands. Last season, Crosby delivered an impressive 10 sacks, 20 quarterback hits, 18 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles across 15 games. The Patriots not only have the salary cap flexibility to pursue such a deal but also a pressing need to improve their pass rush.
Additionally, Crosby has reportedly shown interest in playing under Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, making this potential trade an attractive possibility for both sides.
Alternative Edge Rushers to Consider if Crosby Remains Unavailable
Should the Crosby trade prove unattainable due to the Raiders’ stringent asking price, the Patriots could explore free agency for established edge defenders. Veterans like Trey Hendrickson and Khalil Mack are expected to be available on the market. Furthermore, New England may also opt to re-sign K’Lavon Chaisson, the former first-round pick who impressed during his rookie year in Foxboro.
