That age-and-tuture dynamic fuels questions about how to best structure the rebuild: should Las Vegas maximize Crosby’s trade value to accelerate the asset haul, or preserve him to help the team contend in the short term? The decision carries significant implications for how quickly the Raiders can accumulate the picks needed to reshape the roster.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer weighed in on potential suitors for Crosby, specifically weighing a trade to the Chicago Bears versus signing a veteran like Trey Hendrickson in free agency. Breer noted Hendrickson is about three years older than Crosby, and cautioned that trades can deplete draft capital—citing the Washington Commanders’ aggressive 2025 moves as a cautionary tale about mortgaging future picks.
Conversely, Mark Willard of 95.7 The Game argued that the San Francisco 49ers should pursue Crosby if a path to acquisition exists, calling Crosby the “big ticket” option a fan would coveted if possible. That perspective reflects the broader rumor mill around Crosby as teams weigh how to address edge-rushing needs with an established star.
On the Raiders’ side, former Oakland/Las Vegas lineman Lincoln Kennedy urged avoiding a move for Hendrickson in free agency, pointing to multiple roster gaps that require attention first. Kennedy highlighted needs at linebacker, along the offensive line, and in the receiving corps and secondary, suggesting those areas should take priority over an edge rush addition.
Ultimately, Las Vegas must decide whether to maximize Crosby’s value to fuel the rebuild or to preserve him for immediate competitiveness, even as the market buzz continues. The offseason will test whether the Raiders can balance asset accumulation with a viable path to contention around Crosby while integrating their young core.
