Eagles Missed Chance to Draft Star DE Maxx Crosby

Philadelphia passed on Crosby in 2019 draft, now he's one of the NFL's best pass rushers

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Philadelphia Eagles had the chance to draft star defensive end Maxx Crosby in the 2019 NFL Draft but opted to go in a different direction, and Crosby has since become one of the league's premier pass rushers with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Why it matters

The Eagles' decision to pass on Crosby in the 2019 draft has had a significant impact, as he has developed into an elite defensive player while the Eagles have struggled to find consistent pass rushing production, making it a key missed opportunity for the team.

The details

In the 2019 NFL Draft, the Eagles had the 25th overall pick but chose to select offensive tackle Andre Dillard instead of Maxx Crosby, who was selected 4 picks later by the Raiders. Crosby has since emerged as one of the best young defensive ends in the league, making the Pro Bowl in 2020 and 2021 while recording 34 sacks over his first 3 seasons. The Eagles, meanwhile, have continued to search for an impact pass rusher to complement their defensive line.

  • The 2019 NFL Draft took place in April 2019.
  • Maxx Crosby was selected 4 picks after the Eagles' 25th overall selection in the 2019 draft.
  • Crosby made the Pro Bowl in 2020 and 2021.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who was selected in the 4th round of the 2019 NFL Draft and has emerged as one of the league's premier pass rushers.

Lane Johnson

An offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles who announced in February 2026 that he would return for a 14th season with the team.

Andre Dillard

An offensive tackle selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1st round of the 2019 NFL Draft, 4 picks before the Raiders selected Maxx Crosby.

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The takeaway

The Eagles' decision to pass on Maxx Crosby in the 2019 draft has proven to be a significant missed opportunity, as he has developed into one of the NFL's premier pass rushers while the Eagles have continued to search for an impact player at that position.