Will Maxx Crosby Finally Leave the Raiders?
Max Crosby, a dominant NFL defensive player, could be traded from the Raiders, with the Chicago Bears emerging as the betting favorite to acquire him.
The star pass rusher has spent seven years anchoring Las Vegas's defenseโbut the betting odds suggest his time in the desert may be ending this offseason.
Crosby's Elite Resume
At 28, Crosby has established himself as one of the NFL's most dominant defensive forces. He's been named to the Pro Bowl five times and earned second-team All-Pro honors twice. He's recorded double-digit sacks in four separate seasons and led the entire league in tackles for loss in both 2022 and 2023.
The problem: he's accomplished none of it while winning.
Crosby has appeared in just one playoff game in his career. The Raiders have missed the postseason and failed to post a winning record for four consecutive seasons.
The Trade Odds
Word emerged that Crosby could be traded as soon as this week. According to DraftKings Sportsbook odds as of March 3, here's where the action stands:
- Bears: +200 (favorite)
- Raiders: +350 (stay in place)
- Rams, Cowboys, Bills, Ravens, Eagles: +700 (tied)
- Patriots: +1000
- Lions: +1200
Chicago's Defensive Desperation
The Bears emerge as the betting favorite to land Crosby, despite fielding the 29th-ranked defense last season, allowing 361.8 yards per game and 24.4 points per game. But the team showed promise under first-year head coach Ben Johnson and sophomore QB Caleb Williams, reaching the NFC Divisional Round before falling in overtime to the Rams.
The Rams Connection
The Rams themselves rank third in the odds, one spot ahead of Dallas. L.A. proved formidable on the pass rush last season: fourth in pressures (174), eighth in sacks (47), seventh in hurries (61), and third in QB knockdowns (66). They reached the NFC Championship Game before losing to eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle.
Dallas's Surprising Interest
The Cowboys' inclusion raises eyebrows. Last offseason, Dallas traded away young defensive star Micah Parsons to Green Bayโso another defensive investment seems unexpected. Yet with the 30th-ranked defense in the NFL last season, maybe the team sees reinforcements as critical.
