In a significant development for the NFL offseason, superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby is actively planning his departure from the Las Vegas Raiders, with reports indicating he has already identified a preferred new destination.
Crosby's Fractured Relationship with the Raiders
Crosby's tenure with the Raiders appears to be nearing an abrupt conclusion. The relationship between the player and the franchise became notably strained after he was controversially shut down for the final two games of the recent season. This decision has seemingly accelerated his desire to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Although Crosby remains under a substantial contract with the Raiders, any move would necessitate the organisation negotiating a trade agreement with another team. The 28-year-old defensive stalwart, however, is not waiting passively; he reportedly has a specific team in mind for his next chapter.
Patriots Emerge as the Desired Destination
During a recent appearance on Boston's prominent sports radio show 'Zolak & Bertrand' on 98.5 The Sports Hub, respected NFL insider Dianna Russini of The Athletic disclosed Crosby's ambition. 'Maxx Crosby doesn't seem too happy in Las Vegas,' Russini stated. 'I know he wants to play for Mike Vrabel. He's told me before.'
This revelation points squarely towards the New England Patriots, where Vrabel currently serves as head coach, as Crosby's favoured landing spot. The news comes just one year after Crosby inked a lucrative three-year contract extension worth $106.5 million with the Raiders.
Contractual Situation and Trade Dynamics
In addition to that recent extension, Crosby's current deal binds him to the Raiders until the 2029 season, after which he would become a free agent ahead of his age-33 campaign. Fox Sports NFL insider Jay Glazer has corroborated the growing rift, suggesting a separation is imminent.
'It's Maxx's decision, they [the Raiders] don't want to do it. But, he was just like, "I'm not going through another re-build,"' Glazer explained in an interview with Yahoo Sports.
Glazer further indicated that any team acquiring Crosby would likely need to offer a premium trade package, potentially exceeding the haul the Green Bay Packers surrendered for star pass rusher Micah Parsons. For context, the Dallas Cowboys received two first-round draft picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark in that high-profile exchange.
A Stellar Career Profile
Since being selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Crosby has established himself as one of the league's premier defensive talents. His career statistics are formidable, amassing 69.5 sacks and 439 total tackles.
His excellence has been recognised with two Second-Team All-Pro selections and five Pro Bowl appearances, underscoring his value and the significant impact he could bring to a new franchise like the Patriots.
