The future of Las Vegas Raiders' defensive talisman Maxx Crosby is shrouded in significant uncertainty, with reports emerging that the franchise is open to trading the Pro-Bowl edge rusher. This comes despite Crosby signing a lucrative three-year, $106.5 million contract extension as recently as March.
A Growing Rift Between Player and Franchise
The discord between the struggling, 2-14 Raiders and their most recognisable player became public in December. The team placed Crosby on Injured Reserve, citing reports that he would require off-season surgery on his knee. However, the player himself reportedly disagreed with that assessment.
Following the IR decision, Crosby left the team's facility in Henderson, Nevada, and returned home. There, he has since posted social media videos showing himself engaging in physical activities like playing basketball and jumping on a trampoline, seemingly contradicting the severity of the injury suggested by the team.
Carroll's Public Support and Tanking Accusations
Head coach Pete Carroll, whose own position is rumoured to be under threat after a dismal season, publicly expressed understanding of Crosby's frustration. "He knows that he's banged up, so he's talking about, 'I'd like to get out of here,'" Carroll told reporters on December 26. "And I said, 'Yeah, get out of here.' So he took off."
Carroll added that he agreed with Crosby's reaction "1,000 percent." Despite this show of solidarity, critics have accused the Raiders organisation of "tanking" – deliberately losing games – to secure the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. A loss in their final game against the Kansas City Chiefs would guarantee Las Vegas that top selection, where Heisman-winning Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is the projected first pick.
Complex Trade Logistics and On-Field Production
Trading a player of Crosby's calibre and contract size is fraught with complexity. Any suitor would need considerable salary cap space to accommodate his average annual salary of $30 million in 2026 and 2027. Furthermore, to avoid a massive financial penalty, the Raiders would likely need to complete a deal before March 17, when his salary for the upcoming season becomes fully guaranteed.
This potential move highlights a misalignment in timelines between the player and the franchise. The 28-year-old Crosby, an Eastern Michigan product, has experienced just one playoff appearance in seven seasons with the Raiders, who appear headed for another rebuild.
Remarkably, despite the reported meniscus issues in his knee, Crosby remained highly productive on the field this season. He led the team with 10 sacks and even recorded the first interception of his professional career, underscoring his value as one of the league's premier defensive talents even while playing through pain.
