As the NFL season recently concluded, speculation around a potential Maxx Crosby Cowboys trade is rapidly intensifying. NFL insider Dan Graziano suggests a blockbuster deal could send Crosby and a second-round pick from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for wide receiver George Pickens and a first-round pick.
Insider’s Take on the Proposed Swap
Graziano highlights that the Cowboys might avoid offering Pickens a long-term, lucrative contract, as applying the franchise tag could create complications. He explains,
“The Cowboys likely aren’t going to fork over a long-term, top-of-market deal for Pickens, and a franchise-tagging him could cause more problems than it solves. They get back Maxx Crosby, who will make around $30 million per year for the next two years and would replace Parsons,”
emphasizing Crosby’s value in shoring up Dallas’s defense.
Team Needs and Strategic Considerations
The Raiders are weighing options around Crosby, potentially needing to trade him to extract meaningful returns. While Las Vegas has Brock Bowers as their leading tight end, they lack an elite wide receiver. By contrast, Dallas boasts a strong offensive lineup but faces a glaring defensive deficiency. Graziano ranks the Cowboys higher than teams like the Chicago Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Los Angeles Chargers for Crosby’s acquisition.
Future Outlook for Both Teams
Las Vegas is balancing the desire to retain Crosby with a long-term vision, especially after missing the playoffs as the only AFC West team last season. Holding the top pick in this year’s NFL Draft, the Raiders are focused on rebuilding. Meanwhile, Crosby remains dedicated to recovery, deliberately disregarding swirling trade speculation.
The Cowboys, who also failed to reach the playoffs and hold the 12th overall draft pick, have an urgent need for an edge rusher. Adding Crosby could significantly strengthen their defense as they aim to challenge division rivals like the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East.
