The Chicago Bears are actively exploring trade possibilities during the 2026 NFL Combine ahead of the new league year starting on March 11, with a particular focus on acquiring pass rusher Maxx Crosby. Despite his status as a top trade candidate this offseason, indications suggest Crosby may not be available for trade.
Crosby has consistently been linked with potential moves ever since the Las Vegas Raiders decided to sideline him for the last two games of the 2025 season against his wishes, sparking speculation about his future. Since then, Raiders general manager John Spytek has publicly affirmed confidence in Crosby’s place on the team, stating at the Combine on February 24 that he expects Crosby to remain with the Raiders in 2026.
However, insider reports highlight that Crosby’s future largely depends on his own preferences. ESPN’s Dianna Russini explained on February 25 that the situation has been evolving since the Super Bowl and currently hinges on what Crosby desires.
“It started at the Super Bowl,”
Dianna Russini, Sports Journalist
“The Raiders have chosen to support their star player because, you know, Maxx is listening. He’s going to want to hear his general manager wants him back. I think it’s going to come down to what Maxx wants. I can tell you the sense here is that teams are talking to his agent. They’re going to hopefully do that when they legally can to get an idea of where Maxx wants to play.”
Dianna Russini, Sports Journalist
Raiders Demand High Price for Maxx Crosby Trade
From the Bears’ point of view, there is a glimmer of hope in knowing that Crosby controls the possibility of forcing a trade. However, the major obstacle lies in the Raiders’ steep asking price for the pass rusher.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, league sources report that the Raiders are demanding a package consisting of two first-round draft picks and a player in return for Crosby. This valuation is comparable to what the Dallas Cowboys received when trading for linebacker Micah Parsons.
To illustrate, the Green Bay Packers traded two first-round selections and veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark to acquire Parsons, who later signed a $186 million extension. While Parsons is younger and currently at his peak performance age, Crosby’s $106.5 million contract runs through the 2029 season, making his salary commitment predictable for a future team. The annual cost for his next team would be approximately $29 million.
Nevertheless, this asking price presents a significant challenge for the Bears, who face multiple roster needs beyond simply reinforcing their pass rush.
Should the Raiders seek a wide receiver as part of a trade, the Bears could attempt to negotiate by including veteran pass-catcher DJ Moore. Additionally, defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr.—who has attracted interest during the Combine, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz—might be offered as part of the deal.
Maxx Crosby Trade Remains Unlikely for Bears in 2026 Season
The Bears are expected to inquire about Crosby’s availability and might exert considerable effort to acquire him if they believe he could significantly improve their defense in the 2026 season. Still, if the reported asking price holds firm, it is probable that the Bears will abandon hopes of securing Crosby and pursue other options.
Bears general manager Ryan Poles has repeatedly expressed reluctance to surrender substantial draft capital for a single player, consciously avoiding the pitfalls of former GM Ryan Pace, who sacrificed multiple first-round picks leading to long-term resource problems.
Although Crosby is an elite pass rusher, his nearly $30 million cap hit for 2026 complicates integration with the Bears’ current defensive line salary commitments, which include starter Montez Sweat at $25.8 million, Dayo Odeyingbo at $20.5 million, and former Pro Bowler Grady Jarrett earning $18.926 million.
Moreover, Crosby will reach 30 years of age before the 2027 season begins, increasing the risk for injuries and long-term durability concerns for any potential acquiring team.
Ultimately, Chicago’s 2026 NFL draft is likely to play a central role in addressing their defensive line needs as they look beyond the complexities surrounding a Maxx Crosby trade.
Sources: Teams have inquired with the #Bears about trading for DT Gervon Dexter, as the free-agent DT market and draft class are not deep.
The 24-year-old started all 17 games last season and has 13.5 career sacks and 42 QB hits. He is entering the final year of his rookie… pic.twitter.com/7v9LhAm4QH
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 26, 2026
