Raiders' Maxx Crosby issues ultimatum to team and Tom Brady

All-Pro defensive end says he will never play for the Raiders again after being forced to sit out the final two games of the season.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The relationship between the Las Vegas Raiders and star defensive end Maxx Crosby has deteriorated to the point where Crosby has issued an ultimatum to the team and its new quarterback, Tom Brady. Crosby was reportedly forced to sit out the final two games of the regular season, leading to a breakdown in trust between the player and the organization.

Why it matters

Crosby is one of the Raiders' best players and a key part of their defense. His refusal to play for the team going forward would be a major blow and create a significant hole that would be difficult to fill. The dispute also raises questions about the team's relationship with its players and decision-making process.

The details

According to reports, Crosby directly told Raiders owner and new quarterback Tom Brady that he will never play for the team again after being forced to sit out the final two games of the 2025 season. The reasons behind the team's decision to bench Crosby are unclear, but it has clearly led to a major breakdown in trust between the player and the organization.

  • Crosby was forced to sit out the final two games of the 2025 regular season.

The players

Maxx Crosby

An All-Pro defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who has been a key part of the team's defense in recent seasons.

Tom Brady

The new quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders and future Hall of Famer who is also the team's owner.

Las Vegas Raiders

The NFL team that Maxx Crosby plays for, which is now owned in part by Tom Brady.

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What’s next

It is unclear what the next steps will be in this dispute between Crosby and the Raiders organization. The team will likely try to resolve the issue and convince Crosby to return, but his strong stance makes the path forward uncertain.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges that can arise when there are tensions between star players and team management, especially when a new owner like Tom Brady is involved. It will be important to see how the Raiders handle this delicate situation going forward.