The Las Vegas Raiders have not had many bright spots in the past few years. One of them is defensive end Maxx Crosby. He has been a game-wrecker and single-handedly taken over games on the defensive side of the ball. For the last six months, rumors have swirled that the team was looking to trade the former All-Pro. They are in a rebuilding phase yet again and could likely get a king’s ransom. On Wednesday, the Raiders made it clear he isn’t going anywhere. They signed him to a record-breaking extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Las Vegas Raiders Extend Maxx Crosby
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports it is a three-year, $106.5 million extension that includes $91.5 million guaranteed. This makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, knocking Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson off the top spot. It isn’t hard to see why the Las Vegas Raiders want to keep him around. The stats speak for themselves.
In his six years with the team, he has amassed 366 total tackles with a whopping 105 of them for a loss. This is in addition to 59.5 sacks, 23 passes defended, and nine forced fumbles. Crosby has made the Pro Bowl the last four years and made two second-team All-Pro teams in the past four years. Furthermore, he consistently gets votes for Defensive Player of the Year. The trade rumors can stop. He will be with the Raiders for the foreseeable future.
2025 Outlook
The Las Vegas Raiders have been busy today. Reports came out today that they have signed offensive lineman Alex Cappa to a deal, helping the other side of the ball. Rumors also indicate the team is looking to draft a quarterback with the sixth-overall pick or trade up to nab their guy. Head coach Pete Carroll could also look to the veteran market to find a bridge quarterback.
The outlook is a lot better with Maxx Crosby on the team. Not only does he put up stats, but he is also the heart and soul of that unit. The fan base connects with him on a different level. It is hard to know the true value of a player like Crosby. This contract rewards him for what he is doing on the field but also for what he brings to the franchise.
Final Thoughts
In an era where so many players change teams to chase championships, it is great to see a player stay loyal to a team. The team is definitely compensating him handsomely, but these are the types of moves that cement the legacy of a player. Will Maxx Crosby be able to live up to the contract?
