In the world of NFL trades, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are eyeing a potential game-changer to bolster their pass rush. Maxx Crosby, one of the league's top defensive talents, might just be the answer to their prayers. However, bringing Crosby to Tampa Bay won't be a walk in the park.
Crosby has reportedly expressed his dissatisfaction with the Las Vegas Raiders, even going so far as to inform part-owner Tom Brady that he's done playing for the team. His hunger for a championship ring is driving his desire for a change, and the Buccaneers could be the perfect landing spot to fulfill those aspirations. But let’s be clear: acquiring a player of Crosby’s caliber will require some hefty sacrifices.
Recent trades for elite players have shown that draft picks alone won't suffice. Just look at the Packers, who had to part with Kenny Clark to snag Micah Parsons, or the Colts, who traded Adonai Mitchell to the Jets for Sauce Gardner. The Buccaneers will need to put together a compelling package to make this trade a reality.
Jon Spytek, the Raiders' general manager, brings an interesting dynamic to this potential trade. With nearly a decade spent in Tampa Bay's front office, Spytek knows the Buccaneers' roster inside and out. This familiarity could play a crucial role in shaping any potential deal, as he’ll have a keen eye on which players might fit well in Las Vegas.
For the Bucs to solve their pass-rush woes, they’ll likely need to include a high-impact player in the trade package. Here are three Buccaneers players who could catch the Raiders' eye:
CB Zyon McCollum
The Raiders are in dire need of cornerback depth, especially with Eric Stokes potentially leaving in free agency. Enter Zyon McCollum, who recently inked a three-year, $48 million extension with Tampa Bay.
Despite a lackluster 2025 season, McCollum is only 26 and still has the potential to be a top cornerback. With Tampa Bay drafting two new cornerbacks last offseason, they might be willing to part with McCollum in exchange for Crosby’s game-changing presence.
WR Jalen McMillan
As the Raiders look to build around their likely No. 1 draft pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, adding a receiver like Jalen McMillan could be enticing. McMillan, a promising talent, had a solid rookie year in 2024 but faced a setback with a neck injury in 2025.
His return to form, highlighted by a standout seven-catch, 114-yard game, shows he still has plenty to offer. While losing McMillan would be tough for Tampa Bay, the chance to secure Crosby might make it worthwhile.
CB Benjamin Morrison
Trading Benjamin Morrison might seem unlikely at first glance, given his recent second-round selection and potential. However, his rookie season was marred by injuries and underwhelming performance, ranking near the bottom in league grades.
At just 22, Morrison’s future remains bright, but his injury history is a concern. If the Raiders see him as a crucial component in a Crosby trade, the Buccaneers might have to consider it.
After all, elite pass rushers like Crosby don’t come around often, and Morrison’s role was already limited last season.
In the end, if Tampa Bay is serious about elevating their defense, they’ll need to weigh these options carefully. The road to acquiring Maxx Crosby is paved with tough decisions, but the potential payoff could be monumental.