Few defensive players in the NFL command as much attention as Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby. Known for his relentless motor and game-wrecking presence, Crosby has become the undisputed centerpiece of the Raiders’ defense over the past several seasons.
But as the 2026 offseason unfolds, speculation surrounding Crosby’s long-term future in Las Vegas is beginning to intensify—and a recent podcast moment only added fuel to the conversation.
Crosby Remains One of the NFL’s Most Dominant Defenders
Crosby once again proved his value during the 2025 season, finishing with 10 sacks in just 15 games. That performance marked the third time in the past four seasons that he reached double-digit sacks.
Across his seven-year NFL career, Crosby has now hit that milestone four different times, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous pass rushers.
In fact, many analysts believe his sack total could have been even higher last season. Because Crosby is clearly the most disruptive player on the Raiders’ defense, opposing offenses frequently design entire game plans focused on slowing him down.
Double teams, extra blockers, and quick-release passing strategies have become standard whenever teams face Las Vegas.
Despite that attention, Crosby continues to produce.
The Trade Rumors Continue to Grow
Even with his individual success, the Raiders have struggled to translate Crosby’s dominance into postseason success.
In his seven NFL seasons, Crosby has appeared in just one playoff game—a reality that has led some fans and analysts to wonder whether the star defender might eventually seek a new opportunity with a stronger contender.
Those rumors have grown louder this offseason as the Raiders continue to reshape their roster.
And when Crosby was recently asked about his future, his response only fueled the speculation.
A Podcast Moment That Sparked Questions
During a February 24 episode of his podcast “The Rush with Maxx Crosby,” fitness influencer Sara Saffari asked a direct question that immediately caught attention online.
“Maxx, I’ve been seeing things on the internet,” Saffari said. “Are you a Raider for life, or what’s happening?”
Crosby’s reaction was playful—but far from definitive.
“Oh, God,” he replied. “She’s trying to go viral! She’s trying to go viral!”
After laughing off the question, Crosby avoided giving a clear answer.
“I’ve talked about this too much,” he said. “I’m just going to leave it at that. Life is good. I’m blessed, I’m happy.”
While Crosby didn’t hint directly at a trade request, his refusal to confirm long-term loyalty to the Raiders left fans wondering what the future might hold.
He did, however, offer positive comments about new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, saying the two have already met and that the coach “seems like a great guy.”
Rachel Crosby Enters the Spotlight
As speculation about Crosby’s future circulates, attention has also shifted toward his family—particularly his wife, Rachel Crosby (née Washburn).
Rachel and Maxx first met in 2016 at Eastern Michigan University, where Maxx played football while Rachel competed as a soccer player. Their relationship has remained strong throughout Crosby’s NFL career.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Ella Rose Crosby, on October 13, 2022.
Rachel has been a consistent presence during both the highs and challenges of Crosby’s journey. Notably, she supported him during a difficult chapter in 2020 when Crosby entered rehab for alcohol addiction, a turning point that helped reshape his career and personal life.
Their story has become one of perseverance, growth, and stability behind the scenes of an intense NFL career.
What Comes Next for Crosby?
If the Raiders were to trade Crosby this offseason, it would represent one of the most dramatic moves in recent franchise history.
Not only would Las Vegas lose its defensive cornerstone, but Crosby’s family—including Rachel and their daughter—would likely relocate with him to whichever team acquired the star pass rusher.
For now, however, the situation remains uncertain.
Crosby has not publicly requested a trade, and the Raiders have not indicated they are actively shopping their best defensive player.
Still, as rumors continue to swirl, one thing is certain:
The NFL world will be watching closely to see whether Maxx Crosby remains the face of the Raiders—or becomes the league’s next blockbuster trade storyline.
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