The New England Patriots had just 35 sacks last season, and could really use an elite pass rusher to give their defense a major lift.
Maxx Crosby rumors are already flying after he reportedly told Dianna Russini that he wants to play for Mike Vrabel.
Crosby has shut down most trade rumors, saying he is not asking for a trade, but it’s not uncommon for players to want to keep that stuff in the building. The Patriots would certainly be a fit, and if he wants to play there, rumors will continue.
However, Crosby will have a high price tag, and the trading for him would be a major investment. The Athletic’s Chad Graff spoke on the Crosby rumors and whether the Patriots are actually contenders to land him.
“It’s definitely realistic. Signs continue to point to Crosby wanting out of Las Vegas,” wrote Graff on Monday.
“And the Patriots could sell themselves on being one dynamite edge rusher from a return to the Super Bowl after how well last season went.
The problem is that although Vrabel squeezed the absolute most out of the roster in 2025, the Patriots still have plenty of holes. And acquiring Crosby, who will be 29 next season, might require two first-round picks.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed on 97.5 The Fanatic’s Kincade and Salciunas on Wednesday that a Crosby trade would require a return similar to the one the Dallas Cowboys got for Micah Parsons.
Parsons was traded for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round draft picks. However, Parsons is younger and a better player.
“If the Pats were to trade for Crosby, they’d likely be giving up their best chances at acquiring a long-term right tackle this year and a long-term cornerback or wide receiver next year,” wrote Graff. “That means it’s probably not the most prudent move.
And yet, big swings are fun. Would it be the most responsible trade? Maybe not. But it would make the Patriots one of the league’s most fascinating teams in 2026 and allow them to take full advantage of Drake Maye’s rookie contract.
If they could do the deal for something less than two first-round picks (say, No. 31 this year and a second next year), I’d do that trade.”
The massive return expectations for Crosby are most likely a reflection of the Las Vegas Raiders’ unwillingness to trade him. However, if he truly wants out and trade talks grow, the price could become more realistic and more reflective of his talent, contract and age.
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