John Spytek Expects Maxx Crosby Back With Raiders In 2026

The Las Vegas Raiders have a massive offseason ahead. They hold the No. 1 pick — and will likely be taking Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with it — and will have rumors swirling surrounding star edge rusher Maxx Crosby. This leaves plenty on the plate of Raiders general manager John Spytek.

Crosby has been with the Raiders franchise for seven years now, dating back to their time in Oakland. In that time, he has made five Pro Bowls and has been All-Pro Second Team twice. He’s had four double-digit sack seasons and has led the NFL in tackles for loss twice.

But for the first time, it seems possible that his future isn’t with the Raiders. At 28, he might be ready to go somewhere where he can compete, and the franchise might want to reset the clock around their potential new franchise signal caller in Mendoza.

However, Spytek seems confident that the star pass rusher will still be in silver and black when the 2026 season begins, via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:

#Raiders GM John Spytek says he expected Maxx Crosby to be on the team this season, calling him “elite.”

“We’re in the business of having really good players on the team, and we need a lot more of them.” https://t.co/mScczl6ygv

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 24, 2026

Trading Crosby wouldn’t necessarily be a bad choice for either side. Having a high cap number tied up in a 28-year-old edge rusher for a team that is several years away from contending is not usually a great formula. However, Spytek’s formula also makes plenty of sense.

To win in the NFL, you need good players. And Crosby is undoubtedly a great player. Trading him requires the Raiders to find another Crosby, either via the draft or free agency, and why spend time looking for something they already have in-house.

Maxx Crosby not paying attention to trade rumors

Rumors about Crosby’s future with the franchise stems from their decision to shut him down for the remainder of the 2025 season to ensure they get the No. 1 pick. He was unhappy with the decision, leading some to believe he may want out via a trade.

However, the Raiders star isn’t paying attention to any of the rumors surrounding him, with his focus being solely on getting healthy and returning to form for the 2026 season. He says that’s the only part of the game he can actively control entering the offseason.