NFL Fans Convinced Chicago Bears Are Making Moves for Maxx Crosby
NFL fans are buzzing with speculation that they already know the next destination for star defensive end Maxx Crosby, as they closely monitor offseason activity across the league. Increasing rumours suggest the Las Vegas Raiders might be prepared to part ways with their defensive standout, and the potential availability of the 28-year-old has sparked immense interest throughout the NFL.
However, it would require a monumental offer for the Raiders to let Crosby depart, necessitating a team with substantial spare salary cap space to absorb his hefty contract. Yet, supporters are firmly convinced that one franchise has already executed the necessary manoeuvres to create room for acquiring Crosby.
Chicago Bears' Strategic Financial Moves
Earlier this week, the Chicago Bears traded star wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. Moore had spent the last three seasons with the Bears, contributing to the franchise's rebuild alongside young quarterback Caleb Williams and coach Ben Johnson. Back in July 2024, he inked a four-year, $110 million deal with Chicago, including $81.5 million guaranteed. By trading him, the Bears have offloaded a $16.5 million salary for the upcoming season.
It has now emerged that Chicago is also planning to release veteran linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, according to ESPN reports. The 27-year-old was set to enter the final season of the four-year, $72 million contract he signed as a free agent in 2023. The Bears reportedly granted Edmunds permission to seek a trade last month or face being a salary cap casualty. Releasing him frees up approximately $15 million in cap space just days ahead of free agency.
These moves followed center Drew Dalman's surprise retirement announcement on Wednesday. With all three players departing the Windy City, it is estimated that around $44 million in cap space will become available for the Bears, as per ESPN calculations.
Fan Theories and Social Media Reactions
Fans are adamant that these financial adjustments are specifically designed to pave the way for Crosby, taking to social media to share their compelling theories. One user asserted, 'The Bears now possess the necessary cap flexibility to absorb Maxx Crosby in a potential trade.'
A dedicated Bears fan account posted: 'Chicago Bears are releasing LB Tremaine Edmunds. It looks like we’re making space for Maxx Crosby. Absolute chaos today. Thoughts Bears fans?'
Another enthusiast wrote before news of Edmunds' potential release broke: 'Bears cleared a ton of cap space after that DJ Moore deal, & Drew Dalman retiring.. The writing is on the wall what’s about to happen.. Also keep in mind Tremaine Edmunds hasn’t been traded yet garners huge interest via trade.. Lol welcome Maxx Crosby to the Chicago Bears.'
A further comment shared: 'The Bears have created $45M in cap space. Maxx Crosby and Tyler Linderbaum, get ready to learn Chicago Bears buddy.'
Crosby's Current Situation and Expert Analysis
Thursday marks exactly one year since the defensive end signed a new contract with the Raiders, agreeing to a three-year, $106.5 million extension. Yet, in the twelve months since, little has improved for the better, and Crosby was reportedly furious at being shut down for the season at the end of 2025.
Crosby turns 29 in August, and this offseason appears to be the prime opportunity for the Raiders to secure a significant haul if they decide to trade him. The Raiders hold the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, where they are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
However, during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show earlier this week, ESPN's Adam Schefter expressed doubts about the Bears' ability to finalise a trade for Crosby. Schefter stated, 'I think the (Chicago) Bears have checked in on Maxx Crosby, but I don't know if they will be able to get it done in the end.'
He elaborated, 'I think there are a whole bunch of teams in on Maxx Crosby. Everybody is sniffing around. That feels like one of those situations where it is quiet now and the volcano is simmering. We are just waiting to see if that volcano erupts and the Raiders decide to move on. The Bears have checked in, the Cowboys have checked in, the Bills have checked in.'
Schefter added, 'I would think a trade like this (the Bills trade for Moore on Thursday) probably lessens the chances for the Bills to pull off a deal because you only have so many moves to make for big-game, big-money players. Again, teams find ways to make things happen, but it lessens the chance that Buffalo can get things done.'
As the offseason progresses, the speculation surrounding Maxx Crosby's future continues to intensify, with fans eagerly watching whether the Bears' calculated cap space clears the path for a blockbuster trade or if other contenders will emerge victorious in the pursuit of the Raiders' defensive star.
