Maxx Crosby to 49ers? Exploring how potential trade path could see $94,000,000 Raiders DE land with NFC heavyweights
Earlier this week, Maxx Crosby opened up on the Las Vegas Raiders' torrid 2024 season. The defensive end expressed feelings of frustration and the need for a reset. However, Crosby outlined that he remains loyal to the franchise that drafted him in the fourth round in 2019.
Crosby has been one of the most consistent performers for the Raiders since joining the team. However, the defensive end has enjoyed just one winning season with the Raiders, when they went 10-7 in 2021.
This season, Crosby has been one of the few bright sparks for the Raiders, who are last in the AFC West with a dismal 2-10 record. He has racked up 43 total tackles (27 solo tackles), 7.5 sacks, 12.5 stuffs and four passes defended across 11 games.
Although Crosby has embodied loyalty and leadership for the Raiders, the organization might be forced to trade the player for the benefit of the team. With a trade for Crosby, Las Vegas could potentially land a few early picks for young talent in the draft, or even get some top players in return from a rival team which could help with a rebuild.
NFC heavyweights could benefit from Maxx Crosby trade
The San Francisco 49ers are a team that could benefit hugely if they float a trade for Maxx Crosby. The NFC heavyweights have the ammunition in offense but have struggled with their defense this season. San Francisco has allowed the most points in the NFC West heading into its Week 14 clash against the Chicago Bears.
Crosby is currently on a four-year, $94 million deal with the Raiders, having signed his contract extension in 2022. The good news for San Francisco is that the team reportedly has one of the biggest amounts of salary cap space in the league.
The salary cap space could change for the 49ers depending on whether they sign a few free agents to their banged-up squad. However, a trade for Crosby could transform the team back into a defensive force
Crosby could fill in at San Francisco as a LDE since the 49ers have arguably the best defensive end in the NFL with Nick Bosa playing at RDE. The duo would be a nightmare for the opposition to deal with, hurrying quarterbacks and stopping their runs.
This season, the 49ers have failed to live up to expectations, especially since they finished as Super Bowl runners-up last season. Kyle Shanahan's team is fourth in the NFC West with a 5-7 record. However, the 49ers still have an opportunity to make the playoffs if they win their remaining games and get the right mix of results from their divisional rivals.
Nonetheless, Maxx Crosby could be an ideal trade for San Francisco's future as well. The 49ers have nearly all the components to challenge for a Super Bowl next season if their key players remain healthy.