Eagles Acquire Raiders' Maxx Crosby in Blockbuster Trade

Philadelphia lands five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher in exchange for 2023 first-round pick and more

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:13am

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In a hypothetical blockbuster trade scenario, the Philadelphia Eagles would acquire five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for the Eagles' 2023 first-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and defensive end Nolan Smith Jr.

Why it matters

The Eagles have struggled to generate consistent pass rush in recent seasons, and adding a dominant edge rusher like Crosby would provide a major boost to their defense as they look to defend their Super Bowl title. For the rebuilding Raiders, trading Crosby for a first-round pick and other assets would allow them to stockpile more draft capital as they continue their roster overhaul.

The details

According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, the proposed trade would send Crosby, 28, to the Eagles in exchange for Philadelphia's 2023 first-round pick (No. 23 overall), a 2027 third-round selection, and defensive end Nolan Smith Jr. Crosby is coming off another dominant season in 2025, recording 73 tackles, 10 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles for the 3-14 Raiders.

  • The Raiders agreed to a deal in March that would have sent Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks, but that trade ultimately fell through.
  • Crosby is currently in 'win-now' mode, while the Eagles are looking to bolster their pass rush after struggling to generate consistent pressure late in the 2025 season.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A 28-year-old edge rusher and five-time Pro Bowler for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Nolan Smith Jr.

A defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles.

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What they’re saying

“This (Barnell's trade idea) is an alternative for both sides. The Raiders would deal Crosby to the Eagles without Brown being involved. The Raiders wouldn't land two first-round picks or get as high a first-rounder as the one they were set to receive from Baltimore, but this would be a reasonable return.”

— Bill Barnwell, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Eagles and Raiders would need to finalize the trade details and receive approval from the NFL before the deal could be officially completed.

The takeaway

This hypothetical trade would provide the Eagles with a much-needed boost to their pass rush, while also allowing the rebuilding Raiders to acquire additional draft capital as they continue to reshape their roster. The deal would be a win-win for both teams as they look to position themselves for success in the upcoming season.