For years, defensive end Maxx Crosby was the unwavering face of the Las Vegas Raiders' franchise. Playing through pain, speaking passionately about loyalty, and dedicating himself to the team's revival, he seemed the last player to ever consider leaving. However, the NFL landscape is shifting rapidly, and as the offseason looms, Crosby's name is unexpectedly dominating trade discussions.
The Core of the Frustration: A Star Without Team Success
The primary reason for this sudden shift is painfully simple: winning has not followed Maxx Crosby's exceptional individual efforts. Despite Crosby consistently performing at an All-Pro level, the Raiders have failed to make a significant leap forward as a team. This growing disconnect between personal achievement and collective failure has fuelled visible tension within the organisation. The situation was further complicated by recent events concerning Crosby's health.
Crosby suffered a knee injury during the Raiders' heavy 31-0 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7, yet he continued to play. The team's decision to finally place him on injured reserve before their Week 17 game against the New York Giants, against his own wishes to play, reportedly led to the star wanting to leave the facility. Head coach Pete Carroll later indicated Crosby might also miss the season finale.
Dwight Freeney's Winning Perspective
Adding weight to the speculation, NFL Hall of Famer Dwight Freeney recently shared his insight on the 'Up & Adams' show. He focused on what Crosby is missing most. "The feeling of winning; there's no feeling like that," Freeney stated. "When you win in the playoffs, and when you go to the playoffs, win a Super Bowl, those are the moments that stay with you forever." The Raiders' last playoff appearance was in 2021, and since then, Crosby's accolades—including Pro Bowl selections and a massive three-year, $106.5 million contract extension with $91.5 million guaranteed—have not been matched by team success.
Contract Details and Potential Suitors
The structure of Crosby's contract makes the coming months critical. While the deal is substantial, it offers the Raiders flexibility. If they trade him early in the 2026 league year, the financial penalty (dead-cap hit) is relatively small, and the salary cap savings are significant. This window closes after March 17, after which a trade becomes far more complicated. Furthermore, with no guaranteed money left after 2026, both player and team face pressure to make a decision soon.
Potential destinations are already being hotly debated. Analyst Kay Adams has publicly championed the Chicago Bears, citing Crosby's Michigan roots and ability to thrive in cold weather. Other logical fits mentioned include the Baltimore Ravens, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, Detroit Lions, and Cincinnati Bengals—teams in need of a dominant pass-rusher to elevate their defense.
The narrative around Maxx Crosby has undergone a dramatic change. From the epitome of Raiders loyalty, he is now the subject of intense trade speculation. His proven talent, combined with a contract that soon becomes trade-friendly and a palpable hunger for team success, sets the stage for a potentially franchise-altering NFL offseason move.
