While the Las Vegas Raiders focus on assessing top draft prospect Fernando Mendoza at the NFL Scouting Combine, speculation continues to swirl around defensive end Maxx Crosby’s future with the team. Crosby’s name has been linked to several trade rumors over recent months, with neither the player nor the Raiders fully dismissing them. After finishing last season on the Injured Reserve list, Crosby underwent knee surgery, which kept him sidelined during much of the offseason.
Recently, Crosby has shown encouraging signs of recovery. After being on crutches for a long period, he is now able to walk unaided and shared a video of himself playing basketball with his daughter, providing an update on his progress. This positive health development might influence trade discussions by alleviating concerns prospective teams may have about his condition.
Two weeks out, no crunches anymore. We’re walking, we’re moving. Shoutout to Drew, shoutout to Jocelyn, shoutout to Morgan, shoutout to Dr. Neil. We’re rolling and cooking. I’m still a shoot,
Crosby said in a clip shared on X.
Updates on Possible Trade Discussions for Crosby
The Raiders organization has publicly stated that they do not intend to trade Crosby, but the situation remains fluid. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, there has been minimal progress in trade negotiations. Russini explained on the Scoop City podcast that, despite Raiders general manager John Spytek’s comments indicating Crosby is expected to remain on the roster, nothing is certain.
The sense I’m getting on Maxx Crosby right now is I don’t think anything has changed in terms of I know John Spytek, the general manager, said that he foresees Maxx Crosby being on the roster. I think he has to see that. I think he should see that,
Russini said.
Until Maxx comes out publicly and says, I’m a Raider forever, which we’ve seen him do. Just knowing how that ended this season, and how disappointed, frustrated, and angry he appeared. Unless he’s really taken a lot of time away and recoup in here, and maybe cooler heads prevail. I don’t know. Maxx Crosby comes to me, he’s the type of person if he’s going to make a decision, I bet you he sticks with it.
Klint Kubiak’s Support for Keeping Crosby on the Team
The Raiders’ defense lacks depth, making the potential loss of Crosby even more impactful. Although a trade could bring future draft assets, none could immediately replace the influence Crosby has on the field. New head coach Klint Kubiak recognizes the team’s rebuilding phase but seems reluctant to part with the squad’s top defensive player so soon.
It’s a guy that we really want on our team, simple as that,
Kubiak said during the Combine.
We want Maxx to be a Raider and the few interactions I’ve had with him have been very positive. Really excited about working with Maxx this year.
Implications for Raiders’ Future and What Lies Ahead
Maxx Crosby’s recovery progress may ease concerns that have complicated his trade prospects, potentially stabilizing his position within the Raiders. While management’s official stance remains against trading him, the ongoing uncertainty reflects the complexities of player-team relationships, especially after an injury-plagued season. Klint Kubiak’s strong endorsement reinforces Crosby’s value in the team’s rebuilding efforts, suggesting that if Crosby continues to heal and maintain a positive outlook, he is likely to play a pivotal role in the coming season.
As the NFL offseason advances, attention will remain on Crosby’s rehabilitation milestones and any emerging trade negotiations. The Raiders’ decisions regarding Crosby could significantly influence their defensive capabilities and overall roster strategy heading into the new season.
— Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) February 28, 2026
