The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are considering a major roster shakeup during the 2026 offseason that could involve trading wide receiver Chris Godwin as part of a deal to acquire star edge rusher Maxx Crosby. This potential move aims to address Tampa Bay’s ongoing struggles to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, a problem that has hindered the franchise for years.
ESPN analyst Ben Solak detailed this aggressive trade scenario, suggesting the Buccaneers would send Godwin, the 15th overall pick in the 2026 draft, and a 2027 second-round selection to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for Crosby and a 2027 fifth-round pick, signaling a bold attempt to reclaim dominance in the NFC South.
Maxx Crosby: A Proven Edge Rusher with a Strong Track Record
Maxx Crosby has been among the NFL’s most formidable defensive players, recording at least 10 sacks in each of the last four complete seasons. Despite missing part of the 2025 campaign due to knee surgery, Crosby still tallied 10 sacks in 15 games and earned his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl nod that year.
Crosby’s impact goes beyond sacks, as he ranks second in PFSN’s Edge Impact Metric and has led the league twice in tackles for loss, illustrating his ability to disrupt offenses effectively. While the Raiders have struggled in recent years with 27 losses over the past two seasons, Crosby has maintained his All-Pro caliber performance, making him a highly coveted player.
From a financial standpoint, Tampa Bay’s acquisition would be manageable. Crosby recently signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension, and while the Raiders would take a $5.1 million dead-cap hit, they would recoup over $30 million in salary cap space by trading him. For the Buccaneers, investing in Crosby would demonstrate a strong commitment to immediate competitiveness.
High Price for Tampa Bay: Trading Chris Godwin and Draft Picks
Chris Godwin’s inclusion in the trade complicates matters due to his injury history. Godwin played only nine games last season, recording 33 receptions for 360 yards and two touchdowns, and has appeared in just 16 games over the last two years, raising concerns about his durability as he approaches his tenth year in the league.
When healthy, Godwin functions as a reliable and physical slot receiver and a consistent chain-mover for Tampa Bay’s offense. However, his limited availability has become a concern. Trading him alongside a first-round draft pick and a second-round pick in 2027 would represent a significant gamble for the Buccaneers, who would be sacrificing offensive depth and draft capital to shore up their defense.
For Tampa Bay, the fundamental consideration is the impact Crosby would have on their pass rush. The team has struggled to replace consistent edge pressure since Shaquil Barrett’s 10-sack performance in 2021. Acquiring Crosby could shift the defensive balance and quickly elevate the Buccaneers’ standing within the NFC South.
Long-Term Outlook and Strategic Implications of the Trade
Crosby turns 29 before the 2026 season and comes into the offseason recovering from knee surgery, but Tampa Bay would be betting that he still has multiple years at an elite level ahead. Adding him to their defensive core might be the decisive step toward reestablishing the Buccaneers as a top contender in their division.
This proposed blockbuster trade, as outlined by ESPN’s Ben Solak, underscores the tension within the Buccaneers’ organization, which is undergoing coaching staff changes and grappling with pressure on their head coach. The move could mark a significant shift in team philosophy, prioritizing defensive strength in pursuit of a swift return to prominence.
