The Maxx Crosby situation in Las Vegas is heating up-and fast. What started as whispers around the league has now turned into full-blown reports suggesting the All-Pro edge rusher may have played his final snap in silver and black.
According to multiple insiders, including FOX Sports' Jay Glazer and SportsBoom’s Jason La Canfora, Crosby has made it clear behind the scenes that he’s not interested in sticking around. In fact, La Canfora reports that Crosby told none other than Tom Brady that he won’t suit up for the Raiders again-going as far as to say he’d retire before playing for them. That’s not just smoke-that’s a five-alarm fire.
Now, whether the Raiders are actually willing to move on from their defensive cornerstone is another story. We’ve seen similar standoffs before-Myles Garrett’s name was mentioned as a comparison-and not every trade rumor turns into a blockbuster. But if Crosby does become available this offseason, there are a few teams that should be circling the Raiders' front office like sharks.
Dallas Cowboys: Urgency Meets Opportunity
Let’s start with Dallas. Losing Micah Parsons was a gut punch for a defense that thrives on pressure and speed off the edge.
Without him, the Cowboys’ pass rush just didn’t have the same bite. Enter Maxx Crosby-a relentless, high-motor disruptor who could instantly restore that edge (pun intended).
It’s worth noting that Dallas reportedly kicked the tires on Crosby at last year’s trade deadline. That interest didn’t come out of nowhere, and if he’s on the block now, expect Jerry Jones and company to be right back in the mix. The Cowboys need a splash move on defense, and few players in the league make waves like Crosby.
Philadelphia Eagles: Never Count Out Howie Roseman
The Eagles made a move for Jaelan Phillips last year, but with Phillips heading into free agency, his return is far from guaranteed. Even if he does come back, Philadelphia could still use another elite presence on the edge. And if there’s one thing we know about GM Howie Roseman, it’s that he doesn’t shy away from swinging big.
Crosby would fit perfectly into a defense that needs to get younger, faster, and more dynamic up front. With the NFC still wide open and the Eagles eyeing another deep playoff run, adding a player like Crosby could be the kind of move that puts them over the top.
New England Patriots: A Perfect Fit with Mike Vrabel
Then there’s New England. The Patriots are in the market for more pass-rushing firepower, especially with K’Lavon Chaisson’s future uncertain and Harold Landry needing help on the other side. But the real intrigue here is the connection between Crosby and new head coach Mike Vrabel.
Crosby has previously expressed interest in playing for Vrabel, and that kind of mutual respect could carry weight if the Raiders give him any say in his next destination. Combine that with a Patriots team looking to retool and contend quickly, and you’ve got a compelling match.
New England offers Crosby a shot at a Super Bowl and a chance to play for a coach he admires. That’s a tough combo to beat. While the Eagles have the championship pedigree and the Cowboys have the market and need, the Patriots might have the inside track if personal preference comes into play.
Bottom line: Maxx Crosby is one of the most dominant defensive players in the game, and if he’s truly on the market, the ripple effects could reshape the league’s balance of power. Whether it’s Dallas, Philly, New England, or a dark horse waiting in the wings, Crosby’s next move could define the 2026 offseason-and the Raiders' future.