Speculation surrounding Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby remains intense as the 2026 NFL season approaches. While Raiders General Manager John Spytek expects Crosby to remain with the team next season and head coach Klint Kubiak expresses eagerness to work alongside him, trade rumors are still circulating. NFL insider Albert Breer revealed that a trade involving Crosby could occur as soon as this week, with several NFL teams monitoring his potential availability.
Teams Interested in Acquiring Maxx Crosby
Following the 2026 NFL Combine, where general managers and head coaches gathered, new reports surfaced indicating that multiple franchises have their eyes on Crosby. According to Albert Breer, teams including the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and Los Angeles Rams are all carefully observing the situation regarding the defensive end’s future.
Raiders’ Position on Trading Crosby
The Raiders are reportedly hesitant to trade Crosby, who is 29 years old and performing at an elite level. Known for his durability and consistent presence on the field, Crosby is viewed as a crucial part of the team’s defense. John Spytek emphasized the organization’s commitment to maintaining their top players, stating,
“Maxx [Crosby] is an elite player, and I’ve been very upfront from the start when I got here that we’re in the business of having really good players on the team, and we need a lot more of them,” Spytek told reporters at the Combine. “And it’s hard to build a great team without elite players…”
Spytek also highlighted his strong working relationship with Crosby, adding,
“Maxx [Crosby] and I have a great relationship. He’s in the building every day, getting healthy right now. We talk on the phone. We text. So, I have a great relationship with Maxx… Maxx [Crosby] and I have had great conversations. I’m comfortable there. Yeah.”
Implications and Conditions for a Potential Trade
If the Raiders were to consider trading Crosby, they would likely seek a return that compensates for the loss of such a critical player. A deal involving a proven player like D.J. Moore along with a first-round draft pick from the Chicago Bears could be a viable package. However, without a substantial offer comparable to what the Green Bay Packers received for Micah Parsons, the Raiders appear reluctant to part ways with Crosby.
Adding to this complexity, the Raiders have expressed interest in acquiring a linebacker who could immediately strengthen the defense and reduce future draft needs. Veteran linebacker Edmunds has been mentioned as a potential target to fill this role, underscoring the team’s strategic balancing act between preserving talent and addressing roster gaps.
What This Means Moving Forward
The possibility of a Maxx Crosby trade reflects ongoing tensions within the Raiders’ management as they aim to build a competitive roster for the upcoming NFL seasons. With multiple teams watching closely and the club’s reluctance to lose a cornerstone player, any move involving Crosby will carry significant ramifications for the Raiders’ defense and overall strategy. If the trade occurs this week as suggested, it could reshape the landscape for several playoff contenders.
