Maxx Crosby, one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers, has found himself at the center of trade speculation despite his unwavering commitment to the Las Vegas Raiders. The 28-year-old star, who signed a three-year, $106.5 million contract extension in March, has consistently expressed his desire to remain with the team that drafted him. However, the Raiders’ dismal 31-0 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7 has raised questions about the franchise’s direction and Crosby’s long-term future in Las Vegas.
Crosby’s performance this season remains stellar, with 4.0 sacks and 10 tackles for loss through seven games, showcasing his value as a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense. Yet, the team’s struggles have fueled rumors about potential trades. On Tuesday, former ESPN reporter Trey Wingo reported that the Dallas Cowboys had inquired about acquiring Crosby, a claim quickly refuted by Cowboys reporter Clarence Hill Jr. The Raiders also made it clear they have no intention of trading their star pass rusher before the trade deadline.
Despite the speculation, Crosby’s loyalty to the Raiders remains unshaken, earning him admiration from Raider Nation. However, former NFL tight end and current FOX NFL analyst Rob Gronkowski offered a harsh reality check during his Wednesday appearance on Up and Adams. Host Kay Adams raised the topic of the Cowboys’ rumored interest in Crosby, prompting Gronkowski to weigh in on the situation.
“I really liked the decision when Maxx Crosby re-signed with the Las Vegas Raiders this year,” Gronkowski said. “In the NFL, you really don’t see guys, and the organization, with so much loyalty to each other. … And Maxx Crosby believed the Raiders were probably gonna take it to another level, and have the chance of making it to the playoffs.”
Gronkowski acknowledged that the Raiders’ 2025 season has not lived up to Crosby’s expectations when he signed his lucrative extension. He praised Crosby’s loyalty but questioned how long it could last if the team continues to falter. “I thought it was fair for him to sign with the Raiders; you show the loyalty,” Gronkowski said. “He wants to be a Raider for life, but this guy needs a chance to be able to win a Super Bowl.”
Gronkowski’s blunt assertion that Crosby is unlikely to win a Super Bowl with the Raiders struck a nerve with Raider Nation. While the statement reflects the team’s current struggles, it underscores the harsh reality that organizational fortunes can shift rapidly in the NFL. Gronkowski went further, suggesting that Crosby deserves a chance to shine on a playoff-contending team, even floating the idea of a move to the Cowboys, despite their recent trade of Micah Parsons.
Though the Cowboys trade rumor fizzled out quickly, Gronkowski’s comments serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Raiders. For now, Crosby remains a beloved figure in Las Vegas, standing firm through tough times in hopes of a brighter future. However, until the Raiders turn things around, the narrative that Crosby may need to go elsewhere to achieve postseason success will linger, much to the chagrin of Raider Nation.