The Raiders shocked the NFL by trading Maxx Crosby.
Now Las Vegas has made its first big move to replace the defensive superstar.

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Raiders Move Quickly to Replace Maxx Crosby with $48 Million Pass-Rusher Signing

The Las Vegas Raiders didn’t waste much time addressing one of the biggest holes created by their blockbuster offseason decision.

After stunning the league by trading star pass-rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens, the Raiders have moved aggressively in free agency to reinforce their defensive front. Their answer—at least for now—is Kwity Paye.

According to multiple reports, Las Vegas has agreed to a three-year, $48 million deal with the former Indianapolis Colts defensive end, signaling the team’s determination to rebuild its pass rush quickly.

The move comes during the opening wave of the NFL’s legal tampering period, a time when franchises scramble to secure top talent before the new league year officially begins.

And the Raiders have clearly been among the busiest teams in the league.

A New Era Begins Without Crosby

Maxx Crosby had been the centerpiece of the Raiders’ defense for years, earning a reputation as one of the most relentless pass-rushers in the NFL.

His trade to the Baltimore Ravens instantly created a massive void in Las Vegas’ defensive identity.

Replacing a player of Crosby’s caliber isn’t something that happens overnight. But the signing of Paye represents the Raiders’ first major step toward rebuilding the defensive front.

Paye arrives with solid credentials and a reputation as a versatile defender capable of contributing both as a pass-rusher and a run stopper.

Kwity Paye Brings Experience and Athleticism

Originally selected by the Colts in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Michigan, Paye spent five seasons in Indianapolis, steadily developing into a reliable presence on the defensive line.

Across his career, he has recorded 30.5 sacks, demonstrating his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

His most productive season came in 2023, when he tallied 8.5 sacks, showing flashes of the disruptive force scouts once projected when he entered the league.

However, his production dipped in 2025, when he finished the year with four sacks, the lowest total since his rookie campaign.

While Paye may not possess the explosive reputation Crosby built in Las Vegas, he offers a combination of athleticism, strength, and discipline against the run that should make him a valuable piece of the Raiders’ defensive scheme.

Raiders Spending Big in Free Agency

Paye’s signing is just one part of a larger spending spree by the Raiders.

Reports indicate that Las Vegas has already committed more than $200 million in contracts during the early stages of free agency.

The team’s aggressive approach includes several major additions and key re-signings.

Among the moves already announced:

• Signing cornerback Taron Johnson
• Re-signing cornerback Eric Stokes
• Adding star center Tyler Linderbaum
• Signing wide receiver Jalen Nailor

The flurry of deals suggests the Raiders are attempting a rapid roster reset after a disappointing season.

A Defense Still Searching for Identity

Even with Paye joining the roster, replacing the leadership and impact of Maxx Crosby remains a massive challenge.

Crosby wasn’t just a pass-rusher—he was the emotional engine of the Raiders’ defense and one of the most feared edge defenders in the league.

Paye will now step into a critical role as Las Vegas looks to rebuild its defensive front around new personnel.

Whether he can fully replace Crosby’s production remains uncertain.

But one thing is clear: the Raiders are not sitting still.

With free agency still unfolding and the NFL Draft approaching, Las Vegas appears determined to reshape its roster in a hurry.

And Kwity Paye may be the first piece of the franchise’s next defensive era.