The Maxx Crosby trade saga continues to stir the NFL pot, with the Raiders sending mixed signals about their plans for the standout pass rusher. Initially, they seemed ready to part ways with Crosby, agreeing to a trade with the Ravens.
But now, they’re singing a different tune, expressing contentment with keeping him around for the upcoming season and beyond. Yet, insiders are skeptical, suggesting another trade might be on the horizon if the price is right.
Enter the Patriots, who were reportedly in the mix before. The reason behind the Ravens backing out might just lower the Raiders' asking price, putting New England back in the conversation. However, rumors have swirled that Tom Brady, holding a 5% stake in the Raiders, might have nixed the idea of sending Crosby to his former team, potentially depriving the Patriots of a much-needed defensive asset.
When asked about these rumors, Eliot Wolf, speaking at Gillette Stadium, was quick to dismiss any notion of Brady influencing Crosby’s potential move to New England. Wolf, who maintains a good relationship with Raiders GM John Spytek, noted that Brady’s supposed reluctance to deal with the Patriots has never been a topic of discussion.
Wolf’s comments could mean the door remains open for a Crosby trade. Even if it doesn’t happen this offseason, the possibility lingers for future discussions between the Patriots and Raiders. While Brady’s new role as a commentator has sparked some peculiar behavior, it’s uncertain whether he would actually block such a significant move for his former team.
In any case, the Patriots’ pursuit of Crosby isn’t entirely off the table, keeping fans intrigued as the situation develops.