Maxx Crosby’s time with the Raiders may be nearing its end - and if that’s the case, the NFL is about to witness one of the most seismic trades of the offseason. The five-time Pro Bowler has been the heartbeat of Las Vegas’ defense for years, combining relentless motor, elite production, and rare durability. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t just fill a role - he changes the entire identity of a defense.
If the Raiders do decide to move on, Crosby won’t be short on suitors. He’s still in his prime at 28, and with his ability to dominate both the pass and run game, teams will be lining up - draft picks, cap space, and all - to bring him into the fold. Let’s take a look at five of the best potential landing spots for Crosby, and why each one makes sense.
1. Tennessee Titans
If Crosby ends up in Nashville, don’t be surprised if he becomes the face of a defensive resurgence under new head coach Robert Saleh. Saleh’s 4-3 scheme is tailor-made for a high-motor edge rusher like Crosby - think of how Nick Bosa thrived under Saleh in San Francisco. Now picture Crosby in that same role, wreaking havoc off the edge.
The Titans are in a rare position of power this offseason. They’ve got more than $100 million in cap space - the most in the league - and hold the No. 4 overall pick in the draft.
That’s serious capital to work with if they want to go big. And with second-year quarterback Cam Ward expected to take a leap, adding a game-wrecker like Crosby could fast-track Tennessee’s return to relevance.
2. Washington Commanders
New head coach Dan Quinn knows defense - and he knows what a player like Crosby can do for a unit that’s looking to bounce back. Washington’s defense took a step back in 2025, and while Jayden Daniels' injury didn’t help, the Commanders know they need more juice on the edge.
They’ve got the No. 7 overall pick and over $75 million in cap space, making them one of the few teams that can afford both the trade and the extension Crosby would command. At 28, Crosby still has plenty of dominant years ahead of him, and Washington could use a tone-setter like that as they try to climb back into the NFC playoff picture.
3. Seattle Seahawks
The reigning Super Bowl champs already had a ferocious pass rush by committee in their title run - but now imagine adding Maxx Crosby to that mix. Mike Macdonald’s defense thrives on pressure from multiple angles, and Crosby would immediately become the focal point of that attack.
With Boye Mafe potentially heading for a payday elsewhere, Seattle could pivot by investing in a proven, elite edge rusher. They’ve got over $70 million in cap space and the No. 32 pick - not to mention the kind of championship window that makes an all-in move like this feel just right. If they’re serious about going back-to-back, Crosby could be the key piece to unlock another title run.
4. New England Patriots
The Patriots made their intentions clear last offseason - they’re building this team around a nasty, physical defense. Milton Williams was a big splash at defensive tackle, and Harold Landry has been solid off the edge.
But pairing Landry with a player like Crosby? That’s how you turn a good front into a terrifying one.
Under Mike Vrabel, who knows a thing or two about getting the most out of defensive talent, Crosby could thrive. The Patriots are coming off an AFC title and still have over $40 million in cap space, thanks to quarterback Drake Maye being on a rookie deal. This is exactly the kind of move a team makes when it smells a championship and wants to go all in.
5. San Francisco 49ers
Don’t sleep on the 49ers. They’ve been aggressive before, and they’ve got the cap space and draft capital to make another bold move. With Nick Bosa working his way back from a torn ACL, adding Crosby would not only give them insurance - it could create the most fearsome edge duo in the league.
San Francisco has more than $40 million in cap space and the No. 27 overall pick. For new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, Crosby would be a dream addition - a versatile, high-motor rusher who can help re-establish the defense as the team’s backbone. If the Niners want to keep pace in a loaded NFC, this is the kind of splash that could do it.
Other Contenders?
Teams like Dallas, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Buffalo are all reportedly in the mix - and it’s easy to see why. But when it comes to cap flexibility, draft assets, and roster needs, the five teams above are best positioned to make a serious run at Crosby.
Wherever he lands, one thing’s for sure: Maxx Crosby is still a game-changer. And if he’s truly on the move, he could swing the balance of power in the NFL in 2026.