The future of superstar Maxx Crosby with the Las Vegas Raiders remains a major talking point following the collapse of his proposed move to the Baltimore Ravens. For Raiders fans, the failed deal may prove a blessing in disguise. While speculation continues ahead of the NFL Draft, insider Albert Breer believes any potential trade is unlikely in the immediate term and could instead depend on how the 2026 season unfolds
Albert Breer Explains When the Raiders Could Revisit a Maxx Crosby Trade
Breer shared his perspective during his latest appearance on SI’s “The MMQB NFL Podcast,” discussing how the situation has evolved internally, particularly after the failed trade attempt.
“I think the handling of this by Klint Kubiak and John Spytek as it was going on in the moment,” Breer said. “The fact that they had his back was, I think, coming from a really genuine place, but has become the bridge back for them, because there I think they were starting to rebuild the trust with the star player, and so now I think they can go forward together.
“That said, look, if he has like eight sacks seven games into the season and the Raiders are 0 and seven, what do you think we’re all going to be talking about?”
He explained that the organization’s handling of Crosby during that period may have helped rebuild trust between both sides, even as uncertainty lingers about what comes next.
“And that’s what I think is the more likely scenario,” Breer continued. “If he’s going to be traded, I think it’s going to have to come after Max Crosby gets back on the field and plays really well.
“So, people will forget about everything that just happened. And so it becomes a little bit easier from, you know, just as far as managing your owners, managing your fan base. It becomes easier to go out and trade for him again.”
Breer emphasized that the Raiders may benefit from holding onto Crosby for now rather than rushing into another deal. According to him, strong individual performances paired with poor team results later in the year could naturally reopen trade conversations under more favorable circumstances.
“So, it becomes a little easier when it comes to managing your owners and your fan base,” he said. “It also makes it easier to go out and trade for him again. That’s not a bad place for the Raiders to be, either. When you look at where they are, it’s like, ‘OK, Maxx is going to help build a culture, and they’ll move forward as if he’s part of the team.’
“But if they’re really bad in October or early November and he’s playing great, then they can have that conversation. That’s probably the smartest way to move forward if you’re the Raiders.” Breer added.
How the Collapse of the Ravens Deal Impacts the Raiders’ Plans
The situation became more complicated after a blockbuster trade with the Ravens fell apart at the final stage. The deal, which would have sent Crosby to Baltimore in exchange for multiple first-round picks, was ultimately scrapped following concerns raised during his physical.
That reversal forced the Raiders to pivot quickly, losing out on additional draft capital but retaining their star pass rusher. In response, the franchise doubled down on roster improvements through free agency, addressing key needs and signaling its desire to remain competitive in the short term.
BE AN NFL GM: PFSN’s Ultimate GM Simulator
For now, Crosby remains a central figure in Las Vegas, and his presence could help establish a stronger culture as the team looks to reset. However, Breer’s analysis suggests this may only be a temporary alignment depending on the results early in the season.
The 2026 campaign appears set to define Crosby’s future, with his performance and the Raiders’ record likely determining whether the partnership continues or ultimately leads to a delayed but decisive move.
