Maxx Crosby Trade Rumors: Raiders Poised to Part Ways with Star Edge Rusher
As the NFL offseason heats up, the Raiders' Maxx Crosby may be on the move. With contenders like the 49ers and Lions in the mix, what’s next for the star defender?
The Rising Tension in Las Vegas
The 2026 NFL offseason is buzzing with speculation regarding the future of Maxx Crosby, a standout edge rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders. Amid a season that saw the Raiders falter to a 3-14 record, whispers have grown into roaring rumors that the team is willing to part ways with their prized defensive asset. With Crosby staring down a hefty $30.7 million cap hit this upcoming season, the move could facilitate a much-needed financial reset for the struggling franchise—a franchise that currently holds the coveted No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Why a Trade Makes Sense for the Raiders
The Raiders’ front office appears to be preparing for a complete overhaul. A decision to trade Crosby would indicate a clear commitment to a rebuild rather than a haphazard attempt for immediate playoff contention. Here are some of the critical motivations behind the potential trade:
- Cap Flexibility: Trading Crosby would save approximately $25 million against the cap while incurring only about $5 million in dead money.- Draft Capital: With the expected trade asking price being at least one first-round pick, the Raiders could bolster their young roster significantly.- Crosby’s Injury Concerns: After battling a knee injury last season and subsequently being benched for the final two games, there are questions regarding his long-term durability and impact on the Raiders’ declining aspirations.
Potential Trade Destinations
With their eyes on the future, two teams emerge as primary contenders for Crosby’s services: the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions. Let’s analyze what Crosby might bring to each team and the terms of potential deals.
- San Francisco 49ers- Trade Package: - Raiders Receive: - 2026 first-round pick (mid-round) - 2027 second-round pick - Conditional late-round pick (performance-based) - 49ers Receive: - Maxx Crosby - Contract through 2029
The 49ers, coming off a strong 12-5 campaign with a deep playoff run, could use Crosby to enhance an already formidable defense featuring stars like Nick Bosa and Javon Hargrave. Adding Crosby would elevate their pass rush and tighten their Super Bowl contention window.
- Detroit Lions- Trade Package: - Raiders Receive: - 2026 first-round pick (mid-round) - 2027 second-round pick - A young starter on defense - Lions Receive: - Maxx Crosby - Contract through 2029
The Lions, who finished the 2025 season at 9-8, are looking for ways to bolster their defense, which lagged near the bottom of the league in sacks and pressure rates. Pairing Crosby with a returning Aidan Hutchinson could give Detroit one of the league’s strongest edge duos, transforming their defensive outlook.
The Bottom Line: Impact on the League
Should he be traded, the ramifications would ripple through the league. For the Raiders, it signifies a commitment to new beginnings, while for either the 49ers or Lions, it would mean a significant boost towards sharpening their defensive edges.
- Raiders: Gaining draft picks and cap flexibility could propel their rebuild.- 49ers: Painting themselves as a frontrunner by strengthening their already talented defense.- Lions: Investing in a frontline that can rush the passer effectively, all while adding strategic talent through the draft.
Trading Maxx Crosby could ultimately benefit all parties involved, pending the right structures and negotiations. As the offseason unfolds, eyes will remain firmly fixed on Las Vegas as the future of one of its premier players hangs in the balance.
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Source Note: This article aggregates information from Unknown reporting and public league statements.