Raiders Trade Maxx Crosby, Risk Leadership Gap

0:00For the NFL, it's March 6th, and here's what's going on. Las Vegas Raiders fans are facing a shocking shift with star defensive end Max Crosby. Once seen as a Raider for life since his draft in 2019, he's now likely headed for trade as the team gears up for a full rebuild. With the number one pick in the 2026 NFL draft, they plan to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza as their new centerpiece. The move makes sense from a business angle. Crosby turns 29 this August, and his prime might not match a long rebuild timeline. Trading him would free up over $30 million in CalfSpace for next year, and can net at least two first round draft picks from interested. Teams. Former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr strongly disagrees with the plan. He calls Crosby, the heart and soul of the defense, a leader who brings effort and accountability that can't be replaced. Carr argues it's a bad football decision, especially since Crosby's contract is team friendly.

1:02Tensions between Crosby and the front office boiled over late last season. The Raiders put him on injured reserve for a knee issue, which he felt was unnecessary and part of a tanking push for the top pick. That frustration has lingered amid the rebuild talk. Teams like the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys are watching closely. While the trade could accelerate the Raiders' reset, it risks leaving a big gap in leaders in leadership and production on defense. Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this episode. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed, so LiPillo.com. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening and bed,