In a surprising twist, Maxx Crosby has returned to the Las Vegas Raiders after the Baltimore Ravens pulled out of a trade due to concerns over a failed physical. Now back in the heart of Sin City, Crosby seems content, but the story might not end here.
Sports Illustrated insider Albert Breer shared insights on "The MMQB NFL Podcast" with Conor Orr, suggesting that Crosby's future with the Raiders could still be in flux. Breer speculated that if Crosby performs well and dispels any lingering injury doubts, the Raiders might consider trading him later in the season:
“If he’s going to be traded, I think it’s going to have to come after Maxx Crosby gets back on the field and plays really well, so people will forget about everything that just happened,” Breer explained. “That way, it becomes a little easier when it comes to managing your owners and your fan base. It also makes it easier to go out and trade for him again.”
However, the Raiders aren't necessarily looking to move Crosby. He hasn't requested a trade, and after the failed physical, they might not be inclined to let him go without getting fair value in return.
Breer also pointed out that even if Crosby isn't in the Raiders' long-term plans, his presence could be invaluable for setting a positive tone and fostering a winning culture under new leadership with Klint Kubiak:
“That’s not a bad place for the Raiders to be, either. When you look at where they are, it’s like, ‘OK, Maxx is going to help build a culture,’ and they’ll move forward as if he’s part of the team,” Breer added.
There’s no shortage of teams likely to show interest in Crosby if he becomes available, though the price tag of two first-round picks might be a sticking point. If Crosby doesn’t perform up to expectations or if other teams balk at the cost, the Raiders might opt to keep him in their ranks.