The Las Vegas Raiders have set a clear asking price for defensive end Maxx Crosby, requiring two first-round draft picks and a player in return. As the trade discussions develop this week, the key question is whether the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are willing to meet such a high cost for Crosby, given their current team needs and past tendencies.
The Buccaneers have faced difficulties with edge rushers recently, and while they need reinforcements at the position, there are reasons to be cautious. Over the weekend, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times examined why Tampa Bay might hesitate to pursue this deal despite the potential upside.
Factors Influencing Tampa Bay’s Reluctance to Trade for Crosby
One major consideration is the approach of Tampa Bay’s longtime general manager Jason Licht, who historically avoids trading away valuable draft picks. Tampa Bay’s track record in acquiring pass rushers has also been inconsistent, which adds another layer of hesitation when it comes to committing significant draft capital.
The Buccaneers’ current roster shows a clear need for improvement on the edge. Haason Reddick, signed on a one-year $14 million contract, underperformed in 2025, while YaYa Diaby remains the primary pass rusher. Additionally, Tampa Bay holds hope for David Walker, a fourth-round pick from the 2025 draft who suffered an ACL injury early in training camp, limiting his contribution this season.
Possibility Exists Despite Conventional Wisdom
Though Stroud’s analysis generally underscores reasons the Buccaneers might avoid trading for Crosby, the article leaves room for the unexpected. Stroud concludes,
“If Crosby is available, history tells us Licht won’t go after him,”
but he adds,
“But fortune does favor the bold at times.”
This suggests the door remains open for a surprising move if circumstances align.
The Raiders may be motivated to move Crosby out of their conference, and with Raiders minority owner Tom Brady—who still exerts influence over the organization’s football operations—there may be some flexibility in trade demands. Brady has a strong relationship with Licht, who contributed to his seventh Super Bowl victory, potentially making negotiations smoother.
Trade Scenarios and Strategic Considerations
Currently, Tampa Bay holds the 15th overall pick in the upcoming draft, which positions them well to negotiate. For example, if a team like the Chicago Bears offered their 25th overall pick in 2026 plus a later first-round pick in 2027, the Buccaneers might only need to include less than their own first-rounder to complete a trade for Crosby. A central question remains whether Tampa would be willing to part with a player the Raiders find valuable as part of the package.
Meanwhile, Raiders general manager John Spytek and head coach Klint Kubiak publicly supported Crosby during the recent Scouting Combine, yet no statements have been made to counter claims from insider Jay Glazer that Crosby’s time with the Raiders is effectively over.
Trade’s Potential Impact and Future Developments
The Raiders are likely to weigh all offers carefully and might accept the best available deal, which could come from Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers’ potential move for Maxx Crosby could address their edge rusher gap and shift dynamics in an already competitive conference.
As the situation evolves, fans and analysts will watch closely for signs of progress in talks, which could signal a bold step by the Buccaneers and have significant ramifications for both teams heading into the next season.
