Maxx Crosby’s Franchise Dilemma and the Raiders’ Potential Path Forward

At 29 years old, Maxx Crosby has grown weary of being part of a losing team. The Las Vegas Raiders may also be considering a change as tensions have risen between the front office, coaching staff, and their star pass rusher over his injury status at the end of the 2025 season. Despite wanting to play, Crosby ultimately chose surgery when it became clear that wasn’t an option.

Crosby remains one of the elite pass rushers in the NFL. While this season was a down year for him, he still managed a pass rush win rate of over 25 percent per Pro Football Focus, which is impressive given the lack of support on the defensive line. In a league where quarterback play often dictates success, there will always be a demand for players who can pressure the quarterback.

The question now is: what price will the Raiders ask for Maxx Crosby?

The Cowboys set a precedent last offseason when they traded Micah Parsons for a package that included elite defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round picks. Although Parsons is in a different class than Crosby, it’s reasonable to assume the Raiders would seek multiple first-round picks in exchange for their current franchise cornerstone.

If the Raiders lose to the Giants this week, they’ll secure the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. While they’re likely targeting a quarterback—hint: Fernando Mendoza—their need for additional draft capital is pressing. Adding more picks to their roster could accelerate their rebuild. Dealing Crosby would also help them stay under the salary cap, which is crucial for future flexibility.

Finding a new home for Maxx Crosby presents an intriguing challenge. Many teams could benefit from his talents, but not all have the draft assets to match the Raiders’ asking price. Here are some potential suitors:

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys aren’t necessarily seen as a true contender, and their defense needs a complete overhaul. It’s unclear if Matt Eberflus will return after this season. However, Dallas is built to win now, as evidenced by their recent trade for Quinnen Williams. With Kenny Clark still under contract, the defensive line should remain strong in 2026. If they can use some of the picks acquired for Parsons to find a replacement, they might quickly regain their competitive edge.

Chicago Bears

The Bears are missing a reliable pass rush, but they’ve found ways to win without one. Adding Crosby to Ben Johnson’s culture could elevate them to the top of the NFC for years. However, this move would come at a cost. The Bears would likely keep their 2027 first-round pick, allowing them to build from within while giving the Raiders exactly what they want.

Philadelphia Eagles

Howie Roseman is unlikely to give in easily, but the Eagles understand the importance of maintaining depth on the defensive line. While their draft picks may not provide as much value to the Raiders as other teams, the additional picks could interest John Spytek, assuming the Raiders trust their scouts and player development staff.

Buffalo Bills

The Bills could make a straightforward deal for Crosby. Their Super Bowl window may be closing, and they’ve long lacked a star pass rusher on the outside. With the AFC playoffs lacking dominant quarterback play, adding Crosby would give them a key advantage. It could be the answer to a long-standing question about how to ensure Josh Allen remains the last quarterback standing.

Washington Commanders

Washington took a step back in 2025 due in part to injuries to Jayden Daniels. However, they’re expected to rebound next season. Adding Crosby to their struggling pass rush could make a significant impact, helping Daniels get the ball back into his hands more quickly.

Potential Impact of a Trade

A trade involving Maxx Crosby would have wide-reaching implications. For the Raiders, it could mean a faster rebuild and financial flexibility. For the acquiring team, it could mean a major boost in their pass rush capabilities. As the postseason approaches, the market for Crosby is likely to develop rapidly, making this a critical time for both sides.

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