Crosby’s team has begun informing high-ranking NFL officials that he intends to play elsewhere in 2026, though executives are unsure the Raiders will meet his demand to depart, and they expect the asking price could be steep.
Some league observers have floated that Crosby could cost more than two first-round picks and a notable defender such as Kenny Clark, a price tag tied to the recent market for top edge rushers. The Bears, if they go all-in, could present a package of two first-round selections (2026 and 2027) plus a 2025 fourth-round pick (No. 129 overall).
Chicago owns the No. 25 overall pick and could see the value shift into the high-teens or mid-20s next year, potentially softening the sting of surrendering two first-rounders. A Crosby acquisition would pair him with Montez Sweat, who logged 10 sacks in 2025, while leaving the Bears with Nos. 57 and 89 to address safety and interior defensive-line needs.
The Bears’ defense struggled to generate pressure last season, posting 35 sacks as a team and ranking 31st in pass-rush win rate at 29%. Crosby’s arrival would represent a major upgrade to the edge—especially given his five Pro Bowls, age 28, and four-year window of prime production.
Crosby’s fit comes with caveats: injury concerns have crept in over the past two years, and his advanced metrics dipped, though he finished last season with 10 sacks in 15 games and 28 tackles for loss, second in the league in that category behind Myles Garrett. The market for such a player remains uncertain, as Raiders’ willingness to trade and Crosby’s own demands will shape the eventual price.
In short, Chicago’s aggressive bid for Crosby could be a game changer if the Raiders are motivated to move him and the price aligns with the Bears’ commitment to upgrading the defense, but it hinges on a volatile market and the Raiders’ stance.
