Will the Las Vegas Raiders and superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby part ways this offseason? That was a popular topic of conversation on Radio Row before Super Bowl LX, with growing speculation on a potential trade.
In the wake of a 3-14 season, the Raiders are rebuilding with new head coach Klint Kubiak, and Crosby is working his way back from a knee injury that required surgery in January. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the defensive end underwent a minor meniscus repair, as opposed to a trim, meaning his recovery will be measured in months, not weeks. Rarely do teams trade for players who are still rehabbing, so if Crosby ends up being dealt, it's likely to happen later in the offseason.
The five-time Pro Bowler has racked up 69.5 sacks over seven seasons with the Raiders and is still in the prime of his career at 28 years old. Crosby's contract will play a factor in any prospective trade, and the Raiders can save north of $30 million if they deal him, per Over The Cap. In terms of roster fit, there are several intriguing possible landing spots for the veteran. With all of that in mind, we asked our analysts to answer the following question:
What is the best trade destination for Maxx Crosby?
PICK: Detroit Lions
The Lions have so much talent on the roster, and it does appear their Super Bowl window is still open. However, Detroit missed the playoffs in 2025, showing that this league does fall in line with the "Not For Long" motto. Lions general manager Brad Holmes needs to make a significant move to improve the defense, which just finished the season ranked 18th in total D and 22nd in points allowed. Crosby would perfectly complement Aidan Hutchinson, forming a top pass-rush duo in Detroit. His play style fully aligns with Dan Campbell's GRIT mentality, and the Eastern Michigan product's homecoming would send Lions fans into a frenzy.
PICK: Dallas Cowboys
Armed with two first-round picks and a potential carrot in George Pickens, the Cowboys are well-equipped to acquire Crosby and cleanse themselves from last year's Micah Parsons divorce. The five-time Pro Bowler is a potential game-changer for a defense that faltered in 2025. Crosby figures to benefit just as much, as he's never been supported by an offense as high-powered as Dallas' attack. The deal would also serve as a homecoming for the relentless defender, who played high school football in the DFW, making it a potential win-win scenario.
PICK: Stay in Las Vegas
My simple opinion? Las Vegas would be insane to even consider trading Crosby. He's a foundational player; the Raiders should do everything in their power to keep him happy and in the building. That's what I would do: keep Maxx in silver and black.
Having said that, the Raiders just might be crazy enough to part ways with him as they begin another rebuild. So, if that's the case, the perfect fit for Crosby is a team that already has a good front, one that he could take into the next stratosphere. I'd like to see him go to a contender that already has a dominant defensive end, so Crosby can't just be double- or triple-teamed. Think Detroit, Green Bay and Pittsburgh, among others.
PICK: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
I'll go off the grid a bit and pick the Buccaneers, whose pass rush evaporated down the stretch last season, recording just 12 sacks in the final nine games. Tampa Bay needs another difference-maker up front to pair with Vita Vea and Yaya Diaby. Todd Bowles must resuscitate his defense, especially if Lavonte David decides to retire. Bucs GM Jason Licht could call his former majordomo, Raiders GM John Spytek, and offer a pretty good package, starting with the 15th overall pick in the draft.
PICK: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars made big strides in 2025, winning the division after having just four victories in 2024, but their pass rush needs a boost if they want to continue that upward trajectory next season. Jacksonville just ranked 21st in pass defense and 27th in sacks, with Josh Hines-Allen leading the way with eight QB takedowns. Crosby would provide a much-needed boost to the defensive line and another dynamic pass rusher opposite Hines-Allen. With Crosby, the Jags could be true Super Bowl contenders.
