Maxx Crosby has established himself as a top performer in the NFL, making five consecutive Pro Bowl selections and earning two second-team All-Pro honors. However, his tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders has been less than fulfilling, with only one playoff appearance in 2021 that ended in a first-round exit. Given the team”s struggles and ongoing restructuring, it is understandable why Crosby might be seeking a way out.
Recent reports suggest that Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, may be influencing Crosby”s current dissatisfaction. According to Michael Silver of The Athletic, since Brady cannot always be present at team facilities, his personal trainer, Alex Guerrero, has been stepping in to oversee certain matters, which reportedly includes ensuring that players remain in line.
Furthermore, sports insider Albert Breer indicated that Crosby felt he was benched at the end of the 2025 season as part of a strategy to pursue the first overall draft pick, effectively a tanking effort. Breer stated, “You know, right or wrong, I think his perception was, that was communicated to him, that he was being sat down so the Raiders could pursue the first overall pick.” While this approach is not uncommon in the league, Crosby is not the type of player who would easily accept such a decision.
Breer elaborated on Crosby”s mindset, noting, “I think you have to understand the psychology of Max here too. Obviously, he”s a great player, he”s accomplished a lot, he”s self-made. A former fourth-round pick, who”s risen to the highest level at his level, and he”s played just one playoff game.” The lack of team success throughout his career has left Crosby with few points of pride, primarily his personal accolades. He values being present for his teammates, and the idea of his contributions being diminished is understandably disheartening.
Importantly, the decision to bench Crosby may not have originated solely from the coaching staff. Breer suggested that Guerrero”s involvement in Crosby”s medical evaluations may have influenced the decision. This complicates matters further, as Guerrero is not an official member of the team. Crosby has maintained a good rapport with ownership, including Mark Davis, which may have made the situation feel like a betrayal.
Adding to his frustration, Crosby sought external medical opinions regarding a knee issue that led to his shutdown. Those evaluations reportedly indicated that he could continue to play despite the pain, likely exacerbating his feelings of disconnect from the organization.
With the current dynamics, a trade involving Crosby appears increasingly likely. Teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears have been identified as potential suitors. However, the Raiders” reported demand for two first-round picks in exchange for Crosby could complicate negotiations significantly, making the outcome uncertain.
