The Dallas Cowboys are considering a trade for Maxx Crosby, but the Las Vegas Raiders have set a high asking price, complicating any potential deal. With the recent hiring of Crosby’s former defensive line coach by the Cowboys, uncertainties around the Maxx Crosby Cowboys trade have intensified, keeping this saga far from resolution as of early March 2026.
The Raiders Assert Control Over Maxx Crosby’s Future
The Dallas Cowboys have explored acquiring Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders, seeking a key edge rusher to bolster their struggling defense. However, the Raiders have decisively retained control, showing no willingness to trade their defensive star. This firm stance aligns with the Raiders’ recent decision to hire Crosby’s favorite coach, signaling their commitment to building around him rather than trading him away.
ESPN senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler emphasized the difficulty Dallas faces:
“it doesn’t sound like Maxx will be requesting a trade. Meaning it’ll take a massive offer to pry him from the Raiders.”
This statement highlights that Crosby himself is not pushing for a move, giving Las Vegas the leverage to demand a hefty compensation package.
Further expanding on the Raiders’ demands, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk revealed that their trade expectations mirror the value of Micah Parsons’ deal.
“Per a league source, the Raiders are looking for two first-round picks and a player for the 28-year-old edge rusher,”
Florio stated.
“That’s what the Cowboys got for Micah Parsons in August, with the player being defensive lineman Kenny Clark. The quality of player the Raiders want wasn’t specified. Presumably, it’s a starting-caliber contributor.”
The Cowboys’ defensive needs are acute, especially after missing Micah Parsons’ level of production at edge rusher. This reported asking price corresponds with insider information previously shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who reiterated that if the Raiders considered trading Crosby at all, it would require Micah Parsons-type compensation.
Despite the similarities, important distinctions exist: Parsons was two years younger at the time of his trade, with a stronger track record of durability and consistent high sack totals, achieving at least 12 sacks in four straight seasons before departing Dallas. Conversely, Crosby has faced significant injury challenges, enduring eight surgeries over seven years, including a meniscus operation in 2025, complicating the justification for such a premium price.
“Per @JFowlerESPN, it doesn’t sound like Maxx will be requesting a trade. Meaning it’ll take a massive offer to pry him from the @Raiders.” — SleeperRaiders
How Dallas’ New Coaching Addition Might Influence Maxx Crosby’s Status
Adding a new dimension to the unfolding saga, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hired Brandon Jordan, Crosby’s former defensive line coach with the Raiders, as a pass rush consultant. Jordan, professionally known as BT Jordan, announced his new role with enthusiasm:
“One Chapter Close Another One Opens! I’m Back To The South now! Blessed to be the Pass Rush Consultant for Americas Team!! 🎨”
Crosby’s immediate, excited response underlined the strong bond between the two: “Yessssssssir 🔥🔥🔥,” he wrote. Their relationship dates back to 2019, when Jordan began mentoring Crosby after the Raiders drafted him in the fourth round. This connection has been pivotal throughout Crosby’s career, as Jordan has continuously guided his offseason training and development.
The Cowboys have brought Jordan in under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker to revitalize a pass rush that struggled last season, ranking last in points allowed and accumulating only 35 sacks. Although Dallas generated a high number of quarterback pressures, the low sack and quarterback hit totals exposed a crucial deficiency.
In contrast, under Jordan’s leadership, the Denver Broncos topped the league with 68 sacks, in addition to recording over 200 quarterback pressures and 160 quarterback hits. This impressive difference illustrates why Jones acted swiftly to hire Jordan, hinting at a strategic move that could sway the Raiders’ stance on Crosby.
Assessing the Impact of the Trade Discussions on Both Teams
If the Cowboys manage to meet the Raiders’ demanding terms, the potential addition of Maxx Crosby could transform their defense, addressing one of their most pressing weaknesses. However, the enormous cost—two first-round picks plus a starting-quality player—poses a significant risk, especially given Crosby’s injury history and the high durability Parsons demonstrated before his trade.
For the Raiders, holding on to Crosby not only strengthens their defensive front but also preserves the foundation of their pass rushing unit, which is highly valued within their roster. The recent integration of Crosby’s trusted coach into Dallas’ system further complicates negotiations, as it could either cool the Raiders’ willingness to trade or eventually soften their stance if it fosters a more favorable environment for Crosby outside Las Vegas.
The Cowboys’ defensive struggles last season heightened the urgency to secure a premier edge rusher, as replacing Micah Parsons’ production remains a priority. Whether a deal for Crosby will come to fruition depends on how the teams weigh the combination of player talent, health risks, and strategic coaching relationships in the coming weeks.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect for Maxx Crosby and the Cowboys
The Maxx Crosby Cowboys trade situation remains fluid with multiple factors at play. The Raiders’ current stance prepares Dallas for a steep price, while the hiring of Brandon Jordan opens new possibilities for shifting discussions internally. Should the Cowboys move aggressively, the deal would significantly reshape their defensive outlook, albeit at a substantial cost.
As the NFL offseason progresses, both franchises will continue evaluating their priorities. Raiders fans will watch closely to see if Jerry Jones’ maneuvering affects Las Vegas’ plans for Crosby. Meanwhile, America’s Team hopes the renewed pass rushing consultancy under Jordan will eventually bring the breakthroughs their defense desperately needs, trade or no trade.
Per @JFowlerESPN, it doesn’t sound like Maxx will be requesting a trade. Meaning it’ll take a massive offer to pry him from the @Raiders.
— SleeperRaiders (@SleeperRaiders) March 1, 2026
