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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 12: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on in the game against the Tennessee Titans at Allegiant Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bears’ long-running connection to Maxx Crosby may have just taken a significant hit.
In a new update shared by ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the outlook surrounding Crosby’s future appears to be shifting firmly back toward Las Vegas. After weeks of trade speculation, including a near-deal that would have sent him to Baltimore, Schefter made it clear that the most likely outcome is no move at all.
“Of all the scenarios out there for Maxx Crosby this season, the most likely one is him remaining, and playing, with the Las Vegas Raiders,” Schefter said Wednesday morning.
That statement alone represents a major development for teams like Chicago. The Bears have been floated as potential landing spots for the All-Pro pass rusher.
However, Schefter didn’t stop there. He doubled down throughout his podcast appearance, pointing to multiple factors that are now working against a trade.
“If you’re Maxx Crosby and you’re the Raider you say you are, and he is, why do you wanna leave that now when the Raiders are putting together some parts that make it more encouraging and give you more optimism than you had about that team in recent memory,” Schefter added.
Adam Schefter
Of all the scenarios out there for Maxx Crosby this season, the most likely one is him remaining, and playing, with the Las Vegas Raiders.
With @tyschmit:
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For a Bears team still searching for a true game-changer, this update suggests that one of the biggest possible offseason swings may no longer be realistic.
Schefter Points to Multiple Reasons Crosby Isn’t Moving
Schefter’s comments paint a clear picture. This is not just about one factor. It’s a combination of momentum, value, and Crosby’s own stance.
According to Schefter, Las Vegas’ offseason direction is a key reason things have changed. With a new head coach, the No. 1 overall pick, and emerging offensive pieces like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty, the situation is trending upward.
At the same time, the trade market itself may be working against a deal.
“If the Raiders are going to trade him today, I think his value is 80 cents on the dollar,” Schefter said. “All the factors make it less likely he will be traded.”
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That combination of an improving team outlook and reduced trade value makes it harder to justify the Raiders moving Crosby.
Crosby’s Own Message May Be the Biggest Factor
More than anything, Schefter emphasized Crosby’s mindset as the most important development.
“And, most importantly, we have Maxx Crosby professing his love to the Raiders saying that he wants to be back there,” Schefter said. “It’s almost like they went to some chapel in Las Vegas to renew their vows… I think they’ll be back together.”
That quote may be the clearest signal yet that the situation has stabilized after the failed trade.
For Bears fans, Schefter did add one point of optimism:
“Could there be a situation later this offseason where a team makes a big offer and he’s traded? Yes, of course”
But he continued to make his stance clear:
“But the most likely scenario is that he is a Raider for the 2026 season, and I don’t think it’s close right now.”
For the Bears, their dreams of getting one of the best defensive players in the NFL took a major hit.
For now, one of the biggest names potentially available appears to be staying put.