Maxx Crosby’s Future in Las Vegas Looks Cloudy-And the NFL Is Watching Closely
Maxx Crosby has been the heart and soul of the Raiders’ defense for years-relentless motor, elite production, and the kind of edge presence that offensive coordinators lose sleep over. But now, the Silver and Black faithful may have to brace for a future without him.
According to a league general manager, Crosby has reportedly made it clear to Raiders minority owner Tom Brady that he’s done in Vegas. Not just unhappy-done. The GM claims Crosby told Brady he’d never play for the Raiders again.
That’s a bombshell, especially when you consider what Crosby means to this franchise. A five-time Pro Bowler, he’s been one of the few consistent bright spots on a team that’s struggled to find its footing in recent seasons.
And now, there’s talk that he’d rather retire than suit up again for Las Vegas. Last week, he even hinted at exploring a new athletic challenge altogether-possibly in the UFC, a sport he’s shown growing interest in.
But even if Crosby is ready to move on, it’s not as simple as packing his bags.
“I’m not sure they’re actually going to trade him,” said the GM.
And that’s where things get really interesting. Because while Crosby might be pushing for the exit, the Raiders still hold the cards-at least for now.
A Rift Rooted in 2025
This isn’t just about wins and losses. Crosby’s frustration reportedly stems from how the team handled the end of the 2025 season.
He was placed on injured reserve for the final two games, a move that raised eyebrows at the time. Tight end Brock Bowers was also shut down for the season in the same stretch.
The reason? According to reports, the organization was aiming for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
And whether or not that was the official strategy, it worked. The Raiders edged out the Jets to secure the top pick, setting themselves up for a franchise-altering selection on April 23.
But that decision may have come at a cost. Crosby had just signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension last March-$91.5 million of it guaranteed.
For a player of his caliber, being shut down in what may have felt like a tanking move could be seen as a betrayal of competitive integrity. And for a relentless competitor like Crosby, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
Trade Buzz Is Heating Up
If the Raiders do decide to move Crosby, the line of interested teams will be long. One name being floated? The Los Angeles Rams.
While the Rams aren’t necessarily desperate for edge help, general manager Les Snead has never been shy about swinging big. With two first-round picks in upcoming drafts, L.A. has the draft capital to make a serious offer. And according to analyst Moe Moton, there’s a potential framework that could make sense for both sides.
The proposed deal: the Rams send their 2026 No. 29 pick, a 2027 first-rounder, and edge rusher Byron Young to the Raiders in exchange for Crosby and a 2027 third-round pick.
It’s a lot to unpack. Young is coming off a breakout 2025 season, notching a career-high 12 sacks.
He’s younger, cheaper, and still developing. But Crosby is in a different tier-he’s posted double-digit sacks in three of the last four seasons and brings a level of leadership and intensity that’s tough to replace.
From the Raiders’ perspective, this would be a major shift. Trading away your defensive cornerstone in exchange for future assets signals a full reset. But if the relationship with Crosby is truly beyond repair, this might be the best way to salvage value.
What’s Next?
For now, everything is speculation-but the tension feels real. Crosby is one of the most respected players in the league, both in the locker room and on the field. If he’s truly ready to walk away from the Raiders, it’s a seismic moment for the franchise.
Whether this ends in a blockbuster trade, a surprise reconciliation, or something even more unexpected (hello, UFC?), one thing is certain: Maxx Crosby’s next move will have ripple effects across the league. And the Raiders, who already face a pivotal offseason, may soon find themselves navigating their biggest roster decision in years.