Tom Brady's Influence Keeps Maxx Crosby Away from Patriots

ESPN suggests Brady's Raiders ownership stake played a role in Crosby signing with the Baltimore Ravens instead of New England.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The New England Patriots were reportedly interested in signing Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby, but he ultimately signed with the Baltimore Ravens. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, a person involved in the trade suggested that former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who owns a minority stake in the Raiders, likely played a role in Crosby not joining the Patriots and their head coach Mike Vrabel.

Why it matters

This story highlights the influence star players can have even after retiring, as well as the complex web of relationships and interests that can impact free agency decisions in the NFL. Brady's continued involvement with the Raiders as an owner appears to have swayed Crosby's decision, denying the Patriots a potentially dominant defensive player.

The details

The Patriots were reportedly interested in signing Crosby to bolster their defense under head coach Mike Vrabel. However, Crosby ended up signing with the Baltimore Ravens instead. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, a person involved in the trade negotiations suggested that Brady, who owns a minority stake in the Raiders, likely played a role in Crosby not joining the Patriots.

  • On March 8, 2026, ESPN reported on the details surrounding Maxx Crosby's free agency decision.

The players

Tom Brady

A former quarterback for the New England Patriots who now owns a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders.

Maxx Crosby

A pass rusher who played for the Las Vegas Raiders and ultimately signed with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency.

Mike Vrabel

The head coach of the New England Patriots.

Jeremy Fowler

An ESPN reporter who spoke with a person involved in Maxx Crosby's free agency decision.

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What’s next

The Patriots will need to explore other free agent options to bolster their defense, as Crosby will not be joining the team.

The takeaway

This story highlights the complex relationships and interests that can influence player movement in the NFL, even when a team appears to be a logical fit. Tom Brady's continued involvement with the Raiders as an owner seems to have played a role in denying the Patriots a potentially dominant defensive player in Maxx Crosby.