It’s not over until it’s over, and even though it appears edge-rusher Maxx Crosby is happy to be back with the Las Vegas Raiders, and they’re pumped to have him, it’s only for as long as these two parties think it’s working.
During the offseason, of course, the Raiders traded Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in a deal that ultimately fell through, due to Crosby failing a physical. Now, Crosby is back and energized. It’s the start of a new season, and the Raiders have two new quarterbacks: Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza.
But, a trade isn’t totally off the table. Here are three teams that, in theory, could still make a late move for Crosby.
Crosby could still be traded, and these teams may have interest.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys were one of the teams buzzed about most when Crosby was a trade target during the offseason. They still make sense as a potential landing spot. Owner Jerry Jones is usually into the idea of major trades when he believes his team is close to making a Super Bowl run, and Crosby would be a fantastic addition.
The Cowboys have shown interest in Crosby before. Dallas reportedly was willing to offer the Raiders the No. 12 overall pick and a second-round selection, showing just how highly the team has valued him.
Chicago Bears
Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears could also make sense if they’re willing to pay the price for an elite pass-rusher. Chicago already made a major move for Montez Sweat, but adding Crosby would give the defense a real push, and the Bears defense could use someone like Crosby.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently reignited this idea of Crosby to the Bears. He said that he believes Vegas will trade him during the season if they aren’t doing well and shook his head in agreement that the Bears would be a solid landing spot.
San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers are another team that could make a push. San Francisco is in win-now mod. The 49ers have a really tough division, with the Los Angeles Rams now having Myles Garrett and the Seattle Seahawks coming off a Super Bowl win.
What would help the 49ers and also intimidate their competition in the NFC West would be a bad boy addition like Crosby. Oft-injured star pass-rusher Nick Bosa is coming off a season in which he was limited to just three games due to injury, and he’s dealing with a knee issue in training camp. With Bosa sidelined, the 49ers had only 20 sacks last season, which ranked last in the league. Crosby could completement Bosa or serve as strong injury insurance.
So, will any of these teams trade for Crosby? We won’t know for a while. But, don’t count them out of the race.
