Maxx Crosby landing spots: 3 teams that should pursue Raiders DE after trade rumors

Maxx Crosby is doubtlessly one of the best defensive ends in the NFL today. His knack for making tackles for loss has to be seen to be believed, and he has proven that to the tune of two All-Pros and three Pro Bowls.

But on Thursday, he created much speculation by telling reporters during media availability:

“I’m not here to rebuild. I’m here to win. I don't know whatever that means, but I’m here to win now. Wherever I'm gonna be, I’m gonna be here to win, so that's all that matters to me."

And with the Las Vegas Raiders far from being contenders and winners, it can be taken to mean a departure from the only franchise he has known throughout his pro career. In that case, these three teams would be wise to trade for him.

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3 teams that should trade for Raiders DE Maxx Crosby

#1. Arizona Cardinals

Jonathan Gannon's defense could use a star - Source: Getty

The Arizona Cardinals already have their offensive identity set in stone: Kyler Murray under center, with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride as his primary aerial targets, and James Conner to demolishing front sevens on the ground.

But what about their defensive identity? Budda Baker will be a free agent at the end of the season, and chances are he may be leaving. That will leave the team with a lock of defensive stalwarts.

Hence, Crosby and his pass-rushing talents. While Murray and his weapons rack up points, the DE prevents points from getting in. It would be a massive upgrade.

#2. New England Patriots

Jerod Mayo desperately needs a star - Source: Getty

Everyone knows about the collapse that befell the New England Patriots when Mac Jones was their quarterback. The shocking thing is that it did not truly manifest until 2023.

In 2022, the six-time Super Bowl champions were competitive, thanks to their defense and, more particularly, Matthew Judon, who proved himself a sack machine.

Jerod Mayo could use another pass rusher of such caliber. He needs to look no further than Maxx Crosby, a tremendous upgrade over what he currently has at his disposal.

#3. Denver Broncos

The Broncos have not had a star pass-rusher since Von Miller - Source: Getty

Long gone are the days when Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware terrorized opposing quarterbacks with their freakish speed, strength, agility and intelligence. Pat Surtain II, Riley Moss, PJ Locke and Brandon Jones may constitute the second coming of the No Fly Zone in the future; however, the front seven needs a dominator.

It is very likely that the Raiders will not want to trade Crosby to a divisional rival, but stranger things have happened.