Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowler who has spent seven seasons with the Raiders, has reportedly told minority owner Tom Brady that he does not intend to play for Las Vegas again. Moton’s piece frames Crosby as a potential game-changing addition for New England, a move that would significantly alter the Patriots’ edge rush outlook.
The proposed deal centers on the Patriots sending Raiders guard Michael Onwenu, freeing up top interior protection but creating a substantial cap implication. In return, New England would receive Crosby and surrender its first-round picks in this year’s draft and in 2027, per Moton’s scenario.
Cap space is a critical consideration. New England currently sits with about $42.7 million in cap space, ninth in the NFL, and would reportedly end up with roughly $24.3 million after accounting for the trade, even before further moves. Crosby’s $35.9 million cap hit in 2026 looms large in any financial calculus.
Moton’s pitch also suggests Onwenu would serve Raiders’ needs as an interior protector for a presumptive top pick while other linemen head to free agency, but the trade would come at a steep price in draft capital that could limit the Patriots’ 2026 plans.
Ultimately, the trade remains speculative and hinges on Crosby’s desire to exit Las Vegas and the Raiders’ willingness to move him. If pursued, it would provide a proven edge rusher for New England but at a significant long-term cost to the franchise’s cap flexibility and draft positioning.
