Raiders Star Maxx Crosby Linked to Buccaneers Trade

Insiders suggest the pass rusher is interested in a change of scenery, with Tampa Bay identified as a "perfect" destination.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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According to reports, Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby is increasingly likely to be traded this offseason, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers emerging as a potential landing spot. Crosby's relationship with the Raiders organization has reportedly become strained, and he is focused on joining a winning program. While the Raiders may be reluctant to part with their franchise cornerstone, a trade package similar to the one for Micah Parsons could be required to acquire Crosby, who is recovering from a meniscus repair procedure.

Why it matters

Crosby's potential departure would be a significant loss for the Raiders, who are entering a new era with the expected selection of quarterback Fernando Mendoza and the arrival of head coach Klint Kubiak. However, a trade to the Buccaneers could immediately elevate Tampa Bay to championship contender status, as Crosby's elite pass-rushing abilities would complement their already formidable defense.

The details

Crosby, who has been fiercely loyal to the Raiders and the city of Las Vegas, is reportedly interested in a change of scenery and joining a winning program. While the Raiders may be reluctant to part with their star pass rusher, insiders suggest that a trade package similar to the one for Micah Parsons could be required to acquire Crosby. The timing of a potential trade may be slightly delayed due to Crosby's recent meniscus repair procedure, which requires a longer recovery window and could prevent him from being medically cleared before the start of free agency on March 11.

  • Crosby underwent a meniscus repair procedure in early January.
  • Crosby is likely to be medically cleared closer to the NFL Draft, rather than the start of free agency on March 11.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who is reportedly interested in a change of scenery and joining a winning program.

Fernando Mendoza

The expected number one overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, who is set to become the Raiders' new quarterback.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who is tasked with leading the team's transformation.

Mark Davis

The owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Dianna Russini

A reporter for The Athletic who has reported on the growing belief among league executives that Crosby is interested in a change of scenery.

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What they’re saying

“There is a growing belief among league executives that Crosby is highly interested in a change of scenery, and that change could be at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.”

— Dianna Russini, Reporter (The Athletic)

“Crosby's primary focus heading into this offseason is joining a winning program.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

“Crosby underwent a meniscus repair rather than a simple trim in early January. This procedure requires a longer recovery window, likely preventing him from being medically cleared before the start of free agency on March 11.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Network Reporter (NFL Network)

What’s next

If the Raiders decide to trade Crosby, they could secure significant assets to accelerate their rebuild under the Kubiak regime. The timing of a potential trade may be slightly delayed due to Crosby's recovery from his meniscus repair procedure, with a deal more likely to materialize closer to the NFL Draft once his health is further along.

The takeaway

Crosby's potential departure from the Raiders would be a significant loss, but a trade to the Buccaneers could immediately elevate Tampa Bay to championship contender status. The timing and details of a potential trade will be crucial, as the Raiders look to capitalize on Crosby's value while the Buccaneers aim to bolster their already formidable defense.