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Maxx Crosby Has Trade Rumors Explode After Hosting Playoff QB On His Podcast (Watch)

Las Vegas Raiders’ superstar Maxx Crosby has seen his name mentioned in trade talks for months. They started to really surface after it was clear he was irate that the team shut him down for the final few games of the season. The decision came after Crosby made it clear he wanted to play.

Now, he is spending one on one time with a quarterback from an NFC contender.

Nov 30, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) reacts during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Maxx Crosby Trade Rumors Heat Up: Bears Linked Amid Knee Surgery Recovery and Caleb Williams Podcast Appearance

The Las Vegas Raiders’ star pass rusher Maxx Crosby remains one of the most discussed trade candidates entering the 2026 NFL offseason, with his situation described as “complicated” by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport due to a significant offseason knee surgery and lingering frustration over the 2025 season’s abrupt end.

In a recent appearance on NFL Network, Rapoport broke down the layers:

“This is as complicated a situation as I can remember. I’ll go through the reasons why. One… [The way the season ended] had an effect on him. He wanted to play, it turns out he had a significant knee injury, but he wanted to play and was upset that he did not get to finish on the field with his teammates. …Then he has surgery and it’s not a trim, it’s a repair. It’s… not as major of a repair as it could have been.”

Crosby, 28, played through pain in 2025 before ultimately undergoing surgery in the offseason. He has publicly expressed disappointment at not finishing the campaign with his teammates, adding emotional complexity to any potential trade discussions. The repair (described as serious but not catastrophic) means his recovery timeline and readiness for training camp will be closely monitored by teams interested in acquiring him.

Caleb Williams Podcast Appearance Fuels Bears Speculation

Adding fresh intrigue, Crosby hosted Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams on the latest episode of his podcast The Rush With Maxx Crosby. The conversation—covering everything from football philosophy to leadership—has sparked renewed chatter about a potential blockbuster trade sending Crosby to Chicago.

The Bears, coming off a strong 2025 season, are widely viewed as a prime suitor for defensive line help. Adding Crosby’s relentless motor and proven production (double-digit sacks in multiple seasons) could transform their front seven. Williams’ appearance on the podcast has been interpreted by some analysts and fans as informal “recruiting” or relationship-building ahead of trade talks.

Why a Crosby Trade Remains Possible

Contract Situation: Crosby is in the second year of a four-year, $106.5 million extension (with significant guarantees remaining). Any trade would require the acquiring team to absorb a hefty cap hit or rework terms.

Raiders’ Rebuild: Under new head coach Klint Kubiak and GM John Spytek, Las Vegas is in full retool mode. Trading Crosby could net a massive haul (likely multiple first-round picks and/or young players) to accelerate the rebuild.

Market Demand: Crosby’s durability, motor, and sack totals make him one of the league’s premier edge rushers. Teams like the Bears, Chiefs (for a reunion with Chris Jones), or others needing pass-rush help could make aggressive offers.

However, Crosby has repeatedly expressed loyalty to the Raiders and a desire to be a “Raider for life.” No trade request has been reported, and his recovery progress will be key—teams may hesitate if there’s any doubt about his 2026 availability.

Raiders fans: Would you trade Crosby for a haul, or keep the face of the franchise? Bears fans: Dream addition or too expensive? Drop your takes below—this offseason is already wild!