Maxx Crosby's name is back in NFL trade discussions, and this time the Dallas Cowboys are being mentioned as a possible landing spot. The star defensive end remains under contract with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $106.5 million deal, but speculation around his future has not disappeared despite an earlier move to the Baltimore Ravens falling apart. With Crosby carrying a salary cap hit tied to a contract that includes a fully guaranteed $29 million salary in 2027, league observers continue to watch whether a contender could make a serious push before the trade deadline. Dallas is now among the teams being linked to that possibility.
Which teams are interested in Maxx Crosby?
The Cowboys are not the only team being monitored as a potential destination. According to ESPN analyst Dan Graziano, contenders needing pass-rush help could revisit Crosby's market if he proves healthy during the season. Dallas stands out because of its ongoing search for defensive reinforcements. The Cowboys missed out on several defensive targets in recent months, including Nakobe Dean, Devin Lloyd, Quay Walker, Azeez Al-Shaair, and Jordyn Brooks. Adding an elite edge rusher would immediately strengthen a defense expected to compete in the NFC. Graziano also identified the Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots as clubs that could become involved if they find themselves in contention and looking for another impact defender. Crosby's ability to generate pressure consistently makes him a natural fit for teams with postseason ambitions.
What insiders are saying about the trade rumors
The biggest question surrounding Crosby is his health. Graziano wrote, "Crosby already got traded this offseason. Well, sort of. He was headed to Baltimore for a pair of first-round draft picks until the Ravens backed out over medical concerns regarding his surgically repaired left knee. I wouldn't expect Crosby trade talk to heat up again until he gets on a field and shows he's healthy. And from everything I've been told, that could be August or later." Graziano believes the timeline is important. "Crosby might stick with the Raiders all year at this point, but if he's going to get traded at all, we're probably looking at something in-season ahead of the deadline," he added. "If a team such as the Cowboys, Bills, Bears, or Patriots finds itself in contention and in need of an impact pass rusher, things could get interesting here again."
Contract details and salary cap implications
Maxx Crosby's contract remains one of the major factors in any negotiations. He is signed through multiple seasons, giving any acquiring team long-term control rather than a short rental. The structure also includes a fully guaranteed $29 million salary in 2027, increasing the financial commitment for interested clubs. At the same time, that security could appeal to teams seeking a franchise cornerstone on defense. There have been no reports of a no-trade clause, which would provide the Raiders flexibility if they receive an offer strong enough to consider moving one of their locker-room leaders.
How the trade could impact both teams
For Dallas, acquiring Crosby would instantly transform its pass rush. He recorded 73 tackles, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception during the 2025 season while earning a 95.3 EDGE Impact Metric score from PFSN, the second-highest mark in the league. His arrival would give the Cowboys another elite defensive weapon during a potential playoff push. The Raiders face a different calculation. Trading Crosby would likely bring significant draft assets and help shape the franchise's long-term roster strategy. However, replacing a player who remains one of the league's most disruptive defenders would be a major challenge. With roughly five months remaining until the NFL trade deadline, there is no immediate urgency. Still, if Crosby returns healthy and contenders begin looking for defensive upgrades, this rumor could quickly move from offseason speculation to one of the league's biggest in-season storylines.
About the Author: Prantik Prabal Roy is a passionate sports writer who eats, breathes, and lives the game. Since 2020, he has been in the content writing industry after completion of his Master's degree in English literature and covering the NFL since 2024 with sharp insights, while also diving into the NHL and MLB with equal enthusiasm. He loves crafting content that drives traffic without sacrificing quality. He blends storytelling with analysis to keep readers hooked. When he's not writing, Prantik can be found cheering on the Buffalo Bills or diving into books that celebrate the world of sports.
