The Raiders are eyeing a season where Crosby anchors the defense, aiming for a rebound after posting the league’s worst record last season and adding quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top draft pick. While Crosby remains a focal point, speculation about his future persists, and some observers think the Cowboys could emerge as a potential trade suitor.
Brian Urlacher’s Take on a Crosby-Cowboys Fit
Former NFL star Brian Urlacher weighed in on rumors that Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is eyeing another big addition to bolster a Super Bowl-contending roster. Urlacher suggested Crosby could be a logical target for the Cowboys, noting that Jones has a track record of pursuing bold moves. While Urlacher admitted he didn’t know the exact trade terms or how the Raiders would part with Crosby after re-engaging with him following the earlier trade talks, he asserted that Jones would figure out a path if he truly wanted Crosby.
“It’s hard to predict how they would make that happen, but Jerry Jones does,” Urlacher said. He emphasized that the specifics of a potential deal—what the Cowboys would give up and what would entice the Raiders to move Crosby—remain unclear, but he believes Jones could uncover a solution if the desire is genuine.
Other Analysts See Potential for a Crosby Trade
Urlacher isn’t alone in suggesting Crosby could be moved. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio mentioned the possibility of the Raiders trading Crosby to amass assets for a rebuild, though he does not expect the deal to occur during the current season. Florio noted that Crosby was previously discussed in trade rumors when concerns about his knee lingered, but with Crosby cleared and back on the field, the question becomes whether the Raiders view him as part of a long-term plan or as a valuable asset to refinance via a trade if the team struggles.
If Las Vegas performs poorly and Crosby isn’t seen as part of the franchise’s long-term strategy, the organization could weigh the market value of a proven pass rusher against the benefits of added future assets. The evolving balance between immediate competitiveness and long-term cap structure will likely influence any decision down the road.
Summary
– The Raiders pulled Crosby back from trade talks with the Ravens and are set to open the season with him as a defensive cornerstone.
– Rumors persist about a potential Crosby trade, with some suggesting the Cowboys could emerge as a fit, given Jerry Jones’s appetite for bold moves.
– Analysts indicate a trade could occur later, perhaps after the season starts if the Raiders’ performance signals a rebuild, or if Crosby is deemed not part of the long-term plan.
– Crosby has been cleared to play after previously facing health concerns, but questions remain about the length of his future durability and his role in Las Vegas’s long-term strategy.
This article presents ongoing speculation about potential trades and future negotiations surrounding Maxx Crosby.
