Las Vegas Raiders GM John Spytek is making it clear: Maxx Crosby is still very much a part of the Raiders' future. Despite some trade drama earlier this month, where the Ravens almost snagged Crosby for two first-round picks, Spytek is happy to have his star pass-rusher sticking around.
Spytek shared that the decision-making process was anything but easy. "We had a lot of conversations throughout the season, at the end of the season, and through the offseason," he mentioned.
"Things have a way of working out the way they're supposed to. We welcomed him like he never left because he really never did."
The trade talks hit a snag when Crosby failed his physical with the Ravens, raising concerns about his long-term durability. Although the Ravens' doctors believed Crosby could play in 2026, they weren't completely sold on his future health. Meanwhile, some inside the Raiders camp are skeptical that medical concerns were the only reason the deal fell through.
Crosby had knee surgery in January to fix a meniscus tear and a related stress injury. The Raiders benched him for the last two games of the 2025 season, which didn't sit well with Crosby, who was eager to keep playing.
Looking ahead, the 28-year-old is on track to be ready for training camp in July. Spytek expressed confidence in Crosby's recovery, saying, "Excited to see him work hard and attack the rehab like we know. I know he's going to be back ready to rock in August and have many good years ahead of him still."
Crosby's impact on the field is undeniable. Over his seven-year career, he's snagged two second-team All-Pro honors.
Last season alone, he was a force, playing 93% of the Raiders' defensive snaps across 15 games, racking up 28 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits, and 10 sacks. Crosby's presence is a cornerstone for the Raiders, and it seems like he'll be anchoring their defense for the foreseeable future.