For a stretch of time, Maxx Crosby seemed headed toward an exit from the Las Vegas Raiders. The star pass rusher had even gone as far as requesting a trade, signaling real frustration with where things stood. At one point, it looked like that request might be granted when talks with the Baltimore Ravens gained traction.
That potential move ultimately fell apart due to concerns raised during Crosby’s physical. Baltimore’s medical staff flagged issues that prevented the deal from going through, sending Crosby right back to Las Vegas. Instead of a fresh start elsewhere, he found himself returning to a team he had been ready to leave behind.
According to SportsKeeda, since that moment, however, the tone surrounding Crosby’s situation appears to have shifted. He has been actively participating in the Raiders’ offseason program, showing up and engaging with the team rather than distancing himself. His recent activity, especially on social media, suggests a player who is buying into what the organization is presenting moving forward.
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Crosby Speaks Out
One of the biggest reasons for that renewed sense of optimism may be the arrival of Kirk Cousins. The veteran quarterback recently joined the Raiders, and Crosby did not hold back when describing their first interaction. Speaking on his podcast The Rush, Crosby shared his excitement after meeting Cousins and getting a sense of his personality.
“Ran into Kirko Bangs. It was dope, we had a great conversation, he was awesome, definitely fired me up,” Crosby said. “Dude has done a lot of great things in this league, adding him to the squad is gonna help a lot, and we got more pieces coming as well.”
Cousins, for his part, also had strong words about Crosby when speaking in an interview for the team’s YouTube channel. He pointed out how the Raiders’ defensive star is someone opposing offenses constantly have to account for on every snap. That level of respect reflects Crosby’s impact as one of the most disruptive defenders in the league.
Beyond just his on-field ability, Cousins also highlighted Crosby’s energy and passion. He believes those traits can have a positive effect throughout the locker room, helping set a tone for the entire team. Cousins made it clear that he is looking forward to sharing the field with a player who brings that kind of intensity.
The Raiders signed Cousins to a one-year, $20 million deal, a move that signals a short-term plan at quarterback. The idea is to have a steady veteran presence while the team prepares for the future. That future is expected to include Fernando Mendoza, who is widely viewed as a potential top draft target.
This approach allows the Raiders to stay competitive now while still planning ahead. Cousins provides experience and familiarity, especially since he has worked with head coach Klint Kubiak during their time in Minnesota. That prior connection should help streamline communication and make the offensive system easier to execute.
For Crosby, all of these developments seem to be changing his outlook. Just a month after a failed trade nearly sent him elsewhere, he now appears energized by the direction of the team. His words and actions suggest a player who is no longer focused on leaving, but instead on what can be built in Las Vegas.
There is still work to be done before the season begins. Crosby himself hinted that more additions could be on the way, which would further reshape the roster. If those moves happen and Mendoza eventually joins the mix, the Raiders could look very different by the time September arrives.
In the end, Crosby’s situation is a reminder of how quickly things can change in the NFL. What once looked like a certain departure has turned into renewed belief, fueled in part by new teammates and a clearer plan. For now, Crosby seems locked in and ready to see how far this evolving Raiders team can go.
Published: Apr 13, 2026 02:20 pm