Bears Land All-Pro Defender in Wild Trade Projection

Chicago could bolster defense by acquiring Raiders star Maxx Crosby

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Chicago Bears, coming off an impressive 2025 season, are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade to acquire All-Pro pass rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. The proposed deal would send wide receiver DJ Moore and a 2026 first-round pick to the Raiders in exchange for Crosby and a 2027 fifth-round selection.

Why it matters

Adding an elite edge rusher like Crosby would immediately transform the Bears' defense, which struggled to generate consistent pressure last season. Pairing Crosby with rising star Montez Sweat could give Chicago one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the NFL, helping them build on their NFC North title and playoff berth in 2025.

The details

According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, the proposed trade would send Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowler, to the Bears in exchange for wide receiver DJ Moore and the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Crosby has recorded 69.5 sacks over his seven-year career with the Raiders, emerging as one of the league's premier edge rushers. The Bears, who ranked just 26th in the NFL with 35 sacks last season, are hoping to upgrade their pass rush to complement their young, talented offense led by quarterback Caleb Williams.

  • The Bears are considering the trade proposal ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A five-time Pro Bowl defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, Crosby has established himself as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers, recording 69.5 sacks over his seven-year career.

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears' second-year franchise quarterback, who led the team to an NFC North title and playoff berth in 2025.

Ben Johnson

The Chicago Bears' first-year head coach and offensive guru, who helped guide the team to an impressive 2025 season.

Ryan Poles

The Chicago Bears' general manager, who is considering the proposed trade to acquire Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders.

DJ Moore

The Chicago Bears' wide receiver, who would be included in the proposed trade to the Las Vegas Raiders.

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What’s next

The Bears will need to weigh the potential benefits of acquiring Crosby against the cost of parting with a first-round pick and a talented wide receiver like DJ Moore. The team will likely make a decision on the proposed trade in the coming weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Bears' commitment to building a championship-caliber team around their young core of talent, led by quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson. Acquiring an elite pass rusher like Maxx Crosby could be a game-changing move that propels the Bears to the next level in the NFC.