Since the NFL offseason has gotten underway, trade rumors have circulated around Maxx Crosby for weeks, but the All-Pro Edge has been transparent about his perspective on the franchise’s new direction. Crosby signed a massive three-year extension with the Raiders less than a year ago, but it’s clear the star doesn’t plan on playing that contract out in Las Vegas.
Crosby Weighs in As Questions Linger About His Long-term Role
After a challenging 3-14 season and public frustration over his knee injury management, many in the league question whether the relationship can be repaired.
Crosby’s initial comments suggest otherwise.
“[Klint Kubiak] runs a great system and has had a lot of success being a coordinator,” Crosby said. “Brings the best out of a lot of his players. I haven’t talked to him yet, but people talk really highly of him.”
Crosby’s comments mainly focused on the positives of the hire, and he refrained from discussing contract negotiations or speculation, instead emphasizing the importance of hiring Kubiak.
Kubiak built a strong reputation as an offensive coordinator, most recently helping guide Seattle to a Super Bowl 60 victory over the New England Patriots. In league circles, he is viewed as a detail-oriented coach who emphasizes player development and, as Crosby said, helping players reach their full potential.
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For a defensive player like Crosby, the reputation has to be meaningful because, for any chance of a return, his relationship with the HC is key. When he says Kubiak “brings the best out of a lot of his players,” it reflects genuine respect from an All-Pro defender for the qualities he values in a leader.
Kubiak has been clear about his desire to keep Crosby with the team long term.
“We want him to be a part of our success going forward,” Kubiak said during his introductory press conference. “There’s no doubt about that. He’s one of the best players in the NFL. That’s a no brainer.”
After being selected in 2019 by the Raiders, Crosby looked like a star right away. According to the PFSN NFL EDGE Impact Metric, he was ranked 31st in his rookie season and 25th the next year in 2020.
This was a great start, but in 2021, he broke out. He finished ranked 2nd overall. From there, the domination did not stop. In 2022, he was ranked 1st, in 2023, 6th, in 2024, 1st, and this season, 2nd.
Crosby finished last season with 73 tackles and 10 sacks, despite being sidelined late due to injury. Even during a difficult season, his effort remained consistent. This level of production would be of interest to trade if the Raiders consider that option.
