Cowboys Linked to Blockbuster Trade for Raiders Star DE

Potential deal would send 2026 1st and 3rd-round picks to Las Vegas for $106M pass rusher Maxx Crosby.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:00am

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange, depicting a football player in mid-motion, conveying the raw power and energy of a dominant pass rusher.A bold, conceptual illustration captures the fragmented energy and raw power of a star NFL pass rusher, hinting at the potential impact he could have on a struggling defense.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade that would send a 2026 first-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for star defensive end Maxx Crosby. The move would be an uncharacteristic one for the Cowboys, but the team's defense has struggled with its pass rush, and Crosby's addition could provide a major boost.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defense has been a weak spot in recent seasons, and upgrading the pass rush is a top priority this offseason. Acquiring a dominant edge rusher like Crosby could transform the unit and help the team make a deep playoff run. However, the steep price tag may give Dallas pause, as the team typically prefers to build through the draft.

The details

Crosby, 26, is coming off a season in which he recorded 15 sacks and 49 tackles for the Raiders. He is considered one of the best young pass rushers in the NFL and is signed through the 2026 season on a $106 million contract. The proposed trade would send the Cowboys' 2026 first-round pick and 2026 third-round pick to Las Vegas in exchange for Crosby.

  • The Cowboys are reportedly considering the trade offer ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A 26-year-old defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who is considered one of the best young pass rushers in the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys

The NFL team based in Dallas, Texas that is reportedly interested in acquiring Maxx Crosby from the Raiders.

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What’s next

The Cowboys will need to weigh the potential benefits of adding Crosby against the significant draft capital required to acquire him. If they decide to move forward with the trade, it would need to be finalized before the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' reported interest in trading for Maxx Crosby highlights their urgency to improve a defense that has struggled in recent seasons. While the price tag may seem high, Crosby's talent and potential impact could make the deal worthwhile if it helps the team contend for a Super Bowl.