Just a few weeks ago, it felt like Maxx Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders were heading for an inevitable split. The star edge rusher, frustrated and reportedly fed up, looked like a prime trade candidate for a contending team ready to pay up for one of the league’s most relentless defensive forces.
But hold that thought.
According to recent reports, Crosby may not be entirely out the door just yet. In fact, there’s growing buzz that he’s at least open to staying in silver and black - a shift that could change the Raiders’ offseason calculus in a big way.
A Rift That Started With a Shutdown
Crosby’s frustrations with the organization reportedly boiled over late last season, when the Raiders shut him down in December due to a knee injury - a decision made against his wishes. For a player who prides himself on toughness and availability, being sidelined didn’t sit well. That moment sparked speculation that his time in Vegas was nearing its end.
Then came the reports that Crosby had told Raiders minority owner Tom Brady that he’d “never play for” the team again. That’s about as definitive as it gets - or so it seemed.
A New Coach, A New Conversation
Since the season ended, there’s been a notable development: Crosby has had what’s being described as “positive talks” with new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. That matters.
Kubiak, stepping into his first head coaching role, clearly understands the importance of keeping a cornerstone like Crosby in the fold. And it appears that dialogue is helping to cool the temperature.
Add in the fact that Crosby has a strong relationship with Raiders owner Mark Davis, and suddenly the idea of him sticking around doesn’t feel so far-fetched.
Loyalty Runs Deep
Let’s not forget - Crosby has only ever worn a Raiders uniform. Drafted in 2019, he’s become the heart and soul of the defense, a relentless motor who plays with the kind of edge that fans and teammates rally around. He signed a three-year, $106.5 million extension last offseason, and according to reports, he’s always envisioned himself as a one-team player.
That kind of loyalty isn’t just lip service. It’s rare in today’s NFL, especially at a premium position like edge rusher, where top-tier talent is always in demand and big paydays are plentiful.
The Patriots, Seahawks, and a Trade Market That Could Explode
Still, loyalty has its limits - and if the Raiders decide to explore trade options, the market for Crosby would be fierce.
The New England Patriots have been linked to Crosby for some time, and there’s reason to believe the interest is mutual. He has familiarity with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who coached him in Vegas, and there’s reported intrigue in playing for newly hired head coach Mike Vrabel - a former defensive standout himself.
The Seattle Seahawks have also been mentioned as a possible suitor, adding another layer of intrigue. Both teams are looking to re-establish a dominant defensive identity, and Crosby fits that mold perfectly.
If the Raiders do entertain offers, they’re expected to ask for a haul - possibly something in the range of what the Cowboys received from the Packers in last summer’s blockbuster deal for Micah Parsons. That trade netted Dallas two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark. With Crosby still in his prime at 28 and under contract, a similar price tag wouldn’t be shocking.
What’s Next?
For now, everything hinges on the conversations between Crosby and Kubiak. If the new head coach can convince his star pass rusher that things are heading in the right direction - that the Raiders are building something worth sticking around for - then this story could take a dramatic turn.
But if those talks stall, or if Crosby’s trust in the organization can’t be rebuilt, don’t be surprised if the trade rumors heat up again - fast.
One thing’s certain: Maxx Crosby’s future is one of the biggest offseason storylines to watch. Whether he’s chasing quarterbacks in Vegas or elsewhere, he’s going to be a game-changer. The only question is where he’ll be doing it.