Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby made clear Monday that he remains fully committed to the franchise, declaring he never wanted to leave in the first place amid lingering trade speculation.
“I never wanted to leave in the first place, but people have their own opinions on that… I’m not on the business side. I’m not on the third floor. So I don’t know. I’m not a mind reader. I’m not a future predictor. I’m not going to do that,” Crosby said.
“I’m going to be present. I’m going to be the best Raider I can be for as long as I possibly can be.”
The comments came as the Raiders continue training camp preparations for the 2026 season. Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, has been a central figure for the organization since the team selected him in the fourth round of the 2019 draft out of Eastern Michigan.
His remarks addressed the drama from earlier this year when the Raiders agreed in March to trade him to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round draft picks. The deal collapsed days later after the Ravens backed out, citing concerns from Crosby’s physical examination related to a surgically repaired meniscus in his left knee.
Crosby tore the meniscus during the 2025 season and underwent surgery in the offseason. He finished that year with 10 sacks, 73 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and his first career interception across 15 games despite the injury.
Over his career, Crosby has accumulated 69.5 sacks in 110 games, ranking third in Raiders franchise history. He has also recorded 439 total tackles, 11 forced fumbles and 29 passes defensed while earning five consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 2021 through 2025.
In 2023, Crosby posted a career-high 14.5 sacks and 90 tackles. The previous season he notched 12.5 sacks. His production has made him one of the NFL’s most consistent and disruptive edge rushers even as the Raiders have struggled for sustained success.
Crosby has previously described the nixed trade as “water under the bridge” and said he is exactly where he wants to be. Team officials have welcomed him back, with general manager John Spytek stating the organization received him as if he never left.
Some observers have noted that Crosby’s long-term commitment could face tests if the Raiders struggle early in the season. NFL insider Adam Schefter has suggested trade discussions could resurface around the November deadline if Las Vegas falls well below .500 and Crosby remains healthy and productive.
For now, Crosby is focused on the present. The 28-year-old has emphasized improving as both a player and person while helping the team win. He has spoken about raising the standard for those around him and chasing individual greatness measured by inspiration as much as statistics.
Raiders coaches and teammates have seen Crosby’s trademark intensity return in camp. Head coach Klint Kubiak and the staff have counted on the veteran edge rusher to anchor a defense that added several new pieces in the offseason.
Crosby’s contract, reworked in recent years, keeps him under team control for multiple seasons at a competitive average annual value. The Raiders have indicated they would only consider moving him for a premium return, and no such deal appears imminent as camp continues.
As the Raiders prepare for another season in the competitive AFC West, Crosby’s presence provides continuity and leadership. His latest comments reinforce a desire to build success in Las Vegas rather than chase it elsewhere.
