The Las Vegas Raiders are facing speculation about the future of star defensive end Maxx Crosby this offseason. However, ESPN analyst Peter Schrager has advised the team to hold on to Crosby and maximize their opportunities with the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft.
Schrager emphasized the importance of Crosby to the franchise, citing his work ethic and positive influence on the team. He described Crosby as the first one in and the last one out, constantly working to improve himself and lift up his teammates. Schrager believes that Crosby is a cornerstone piece that the Raiders should not trade away.
While acknowledging that the Raiders could potentially receive a lot of assets in exchange for Crosby, Schrager questioned whether they could ever find another player like him at 29 years old. He expressed curiosity about how the situation would develop and urged the team to consider the long-term impact of letting go of a player of Crosby’s caliber.
In terms of the upcoming draft, Las Vegas is expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick. Mendoza, who led the Hoosiers to a national championship and won the Heisman Trophy, is seen as a promising prospect for the team.
Crosby, who was drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round in 2019, has become a key player for the franchise in recent years. He signed a lucrative three-year, $106.5 million extension in March 2025, keeping him with the team through the 2029 season. Crosby has earned five Pro Bowl selections in the past five years, solidifying his status as one of the best defensive players in the league.
As the Raiders navigate the offseason and prepare for the draft, the decision regarding Crosby’s future remains a significant topic of discussion. With Schrager advocating for the team to retain Crosby and build around him, it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds in the coming months.
In conclusion, the Raiders have a valuable asset in Maxx Crosby, and it will be crucial for them to make strategic decisions to ensure their success in the seasons to come. Keeping Crosby on the roster could prove to be a wise move as they look to strengthen their defense and compete at the highest level in the NFL.
