Raiders Star Maxx Crosby Likely Out Until After Free Agency Due to Injury

A recent meniscus repair surgery will sideline the defensive end for several months, complicating any potential trade talks.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby recently underwent a more serious meniscus repair surgery than initially reported, meaning his recovery will take 3-4 months rather than the typical 4-6 weeks for a meniscus trim. This will likely prevent Crosby from being medically cleared in time for the start of free agency on March 11, complicating any potential trade discussions around the player, who has expressed interest in a change of scenery.

Why it matters

Crosby is one of the Raiders' top defensive players, so his potential departure via trade would be a major shakeup for the team. However, his injury status makes it difficult for the Raiders to move him before the draft, as teams typically prefer to acquire key players who are healthy and ready to contribute immediately.

The details

Crosby underwent the meniscus repair surgery on January 7th. While he is ahead of schedule in his recovery, he still likely won't be cleared in time for the start of free agency on March 11. Typically, a meniscus trim has a 4-6 week recovery time, but a full repair can take 3-4 months. The Raiders are now in a tricky position, as they may have to wait until after the draft to potentially trade Crosby, despite reports that he is "highly interested" in a change of scenery.

  • Crosby underwent meniscus repair surgery on January 7, 2026.
  • Free agency in the NFL begins on March 11, 2026.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who recently underwent a more serious meniscus repair surgery than initially reported, complicating any potential trade discussions around him this offseason.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who will be taking over the team following the Super Bowl.

Fernando Mendoza

The quarterback from Indiana who the Raiders are expected to select with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“Sources clarified that Crosby actually underwent a minor meniscus repair — not a trim — on Jan. 7, meaning his recovery will be measured in months, not weeks. A meniscus trim is often 4-6 weeks of recovery while a repair can be 3-4 months. Crosby's should be shorter.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Network Reporter (NFL Network)

“Maxx Crosby isn't coming right out and saying it. But to coaches and general managers around the league, it's pretty obvious. The Las Vegas Raiders' star edge rusher would be highly interested in pursuing a change of scenery.”

— Dianna Russini, NFL Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Raiders will likely have to wait until after the 2026 NFL Draft to potentially trade Maxx Crosby, as his recovery timeline from meniscus surgery will prevent him from being cleared in time for the start of free agency on March 11.

The takeaway

Crosby's injury complicates the Raiders' offseason plans, as they may have to hold onto the star defensive end for longer than expected despite his reported interest in a change of scenery. This could delay the team's rebuild efforts, though it also preserves their leverage in any potential trade discussions.