Maxx Crosby Trade Offers Explored Amid Raiders Rebuild Plans

The speculation surrounding a potential trade involving edge rusher Maxx Crosby has gained traction as the Las Vegas Raiders enter a rebuilding phase. While new head coach Klint Kubiak and owner Mark Davis have expressed a desire to retain Crosby, the dynamics of NFL trades allow for intrigue. With the new league year set to begin on March 11, discussions are heating up around possible deals.

Crosby, who signed a three-year contract extension valued at $106.5 million last offseason, was frustrated when the Raiders sidelined him due to a knee injury that required surgery in January. At 28 years old, he is eager to compete at the highest level, prompting conversations about whether a trade could serve both parties well. A trade could potentially alleviate a $5.1 million dead-cap hit for Las Vegas while saving an impressive $30.69 million, according to OverTheCap.com, allowing them to enhance their roster through added draft picks.

To explore this possibility, NFL analysts Jeremy Fowler, Dan Graziano, Ben Solak, and Seth Walder crafted hypothetical trade offers from four different teams, while Raiders reporter Ryan McFadden assessed the potential impact of these proposals.

Potential Trade Offers for Maxx Crosby

Chicago Bears – Proposed by Jeremy Fowler: This deal would involve a trade that includes receiver Moore, aimed at bolstering a Bears defensive line that struggled last season. Acquiring Crosby would significantly enhance their pass rush, making the Bears more competitive after reaching the divisional round in the previous campaign. The Bears would save $16.5 million on their salary cap, which could help accommodate Crosby”s hefty contract. In return, the Raiders would gain a top receiver and additional draft capital to use for their rebuild.

Dallas Cowboys – Proposed by Dan Graziano: The Cowboys are in need of a defensive boost and would benefit from adding Crosby, who is set to earn roughly $30 million per year for the next two seasons. This move would allow Dallas to replace Micah Parsons and refocus on finding a second wide receiver. Although the Raiders would need to negotiate a long-term deal for Pickens, his acquisition would be more manageable than trying to fit him into Dallas” salary structure.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Proposed by Ben Solak: Given the history between the Buccaneers” and Raiders” front offices, this trade would likely see receiver Chris Godwin heading to Las Vegas. Godwin would provide the Raiders with a significant receiving threat and a solid blocking option for Kubiak. In exchange, the Buccaneers would solve their ongoing edge-rushing issues with Crosby, who has consistently delivered impressive sack totals over recent seasons.

Los Angeles Chargers – Proposed by Seth Walder: Although trading Crosby within the division poses a challenge for the Raiders, it could ultimately yield valuable draft picks that could help them rebuild. The Chargers, facing potential departures of key players, could absorb Crosby”s contract and benefit from his experience. This trade would provide Las Vegas with the means to bolster their roster for the future.

The Verdict on Trade Offers

Among the proposed trades, Graziano”s offer from the Cowboys stands out as it provides the Raiders with a potential WR1, assuming they can secure Pickens long-term. After posting a career-high in touchdowns and receiving yards last season, Pickens would be a significant addition to the Raiders” offense. This pairing with running back Ashton Jeanty, tight end Brock Bowers, and wide receiver Tre Tucker could establish a strong foundation for quarterback Fernando Mendoza in his rookie year. Additionally, the Raiders would gain an extra first-round pick, allowing them to address weaknesses on both sides of the ball.

As the situation evolves, the Raiders must weigh their options carefully while maintaining the potential to quickly become competitive again.