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HENDERSON, NEVADA - MAY 21: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders attends a news conference after an OTA offseason workout at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on May 21, 2025 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bears’ long-running connection to Maxx Crosby may not be over just yet.
After a near-blockbuster deal that would have sent Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens fell apart a few weeks ago, the All-Pro pass rusher remains with the Las Vegas Raiders. While early signs pointed toward Crosby staying put, a new update from ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler suggests the door may not be completely closed for teams like Chicago.
During a recent appearance on Get Up, Fowler made it clear the Bears are still searching for help along the defensive front and haven’t fully moved on from the idea of acquiring Crosby.
“The Bears would like to walk away from the next two months with some edge pressure help or some defensive line help, maybe on an interior rusher, possibly on the outside,” Fowler said.
He then added the most notable piece of the update.
“And they haven’t given up the dream of a Maxx Crosby opening if they can try to buy low a little bit now that he’s back with the Raiders. They kicked the tires on it a couple weeks ago. They ultimately didn’t get seriously involved, but he’s the type of player they would love.”
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Bears Still Searching for Pass Rush Help
Fowler’s comments reinforce what has been clear throughout the offseason. Bears are still looking to upgrade their defensive front as it was one of the team’s few weaknesses in 2025.
Chicago made major strides last season. The Bears emerged as a legitimate contender in head coach Ben Johnson’s first season. But when it comes to taking the next step, adding a true difference-maker on the defensive line remains a priority.
Whether that comes on the edge or along the interior, the Bears appear determined to find impact talent before the 2026 season begins. Fowler’s note that they are open to both edge and interior help highlights a level of urgency to address the issue from multiple angles.
Crosby would represent the dream solution.
Crosby Situation Leaves Bears Door Slightly Open
At one point, it appeared Crosby was as good as gone. There was a deal with the Ravens in which reports indicated that Las Vegas had agreed to a deal involving two first-round picks. However, Baltimore ultimately backed out due to medical concerns. This kept Crosby in place with the Raiders and reintroducing uncertainty into his future.
While recent reporting has suggested the Raiders and Crosby are expected to move forward together, Fowler’s “buy low” comment is what stands out. It signals that teams like Chicago are at least monitoring whether the dynamics could change.
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As we saw with last year’s Micah Parsons blockbuster trade, anything can happen. The NFL offseason is extremely long, and situations can shift quickly from March to September.
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The Bears weren’t deeply involved before, but Fowler said they at least checked in on Crosby. With the situation now reset, that could change. There’s still a path there, even if it’s a small one.
For Chicago, it comes down to opportunity. If one presents itself, the Bears are clearly still paying attention.