Let’s be real for a second: when it comes to Maxx Crosby, the Raiders have more than just a star player, there. The man carries an aura in and around Las Vegas… Saying it as it is: he is THE GUY. The guy’s been holding down the fort in Sin City like he owns the place. But after a rough 4-13 season, the team is in rebuild mode, and that’s got everyone asking—what’s next for Crosby?

Is he staying in Vegas, or are those Green Bay trade rumors about to become a reality?

First thing first, let’s get one thing straight. Crosby’s influence on decisions is not a hidden fact now. He campaigned hard for Antonio Pierce to lose the “interim” tag and take over as head coach. Well, it’s different that move didn’t exactly pan out, with AP and GM Tom Telesco both shown the door after just one season. But here’s the kicker—Crosby’s voice carries weight. Mark Davis isn’t just listening to him; he respects him. So why would he wanna leave?

I mean, we understand the concerns with Crosby’s recent IG story. He called 2024 one of the toughest years of his life, but he’s not backing down. “2025 will be the best year yet,” he wrote, promising to dominate “brick by brick.” It’s the kind of mentality you want in your locker room, right? But with the Raiders cleaning house, could Crosby be leaving that optimism for elsewhere? Well, he did not exactly mention the Raiders even once. That’s where the Packers enter the fray.

No, it’s not a random shout. But they’ve been floated as a “perfect fit” for Crosby in a potential trade. According to The 33rd Team, Crosby’s skill set would shine in Jeff Hafley’s system, and Green Bay might just have the draft capital to make it happen. But let’s pump the brakes—Vegas isn’t exactly in a rush to deal their defensive MVP. Not after all that influence…

Still, in a league where a “Godfather offer” can change everything, you’ve got to wonder: what would it take for the Raiders to let him go?

And even Crosby ain’t saying anything for sure! On his podcast, The Rush With Maxx Crosby, he didn’t hold back. He’s frustrated. But if we are being real: five coaches in seven seasons would test anyone’s patience. “I love being a Raider,” he said. “I want to win here… But we’ll see.” That’s the kind of comment that makes you pause. Is it a commitment, or is it Crosby hedging his bets?

He’s clearly waiting to see what the new regime looks like before making any big decisions. And the new regime, starting with Tom Brady being handed major responsibilities during the reshuffle, could this alone be Maxx’s calling for an extended run in Las Vegas? Maybe…

Surely, Tom Brady wouldn’t want to let go of Maxx Crosby, right?

Let’s call it what it is: the Raiders just went through the football equivalent of a clearance sale. Both GM Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce lasted just one year before getting their pink slips. And while that might scream “fresh start,” it’s got to leave guys like Maxx Crosby scratching their heads. Five coaches in seven seasons? That’s a lot of playbooks to memorize. If you’re Crosby, you’re probably wondering, ‘What’s next for me?’ And so are we.

2024 wasn’t just a team struggle; it hit Crosby personally. Missing five games—including his first-ever—was a tough pill to swallow for a guy who’s built his career on durability and dominance. But even on a banged-up season, he still delivered 45 tackles and 7.5 sacks. That’s like showing up to the playoffs with a sprained ankle and still running the table. But how much longer can he carry the weight of this franchise solo? That’s the million-dollar—or should we say $42.8 million—question?

Speaking of dollars, here’s where it gets interesting. Crosby’s contract has two years left, but there’s no guaranteed money in it. Spotrac.com predicts the Raiders might throw him a juicy three-year, $100 million extension with $66 million guaranteed. Sounds great, right? But let’s not forget Crosby’s recent comments about wanting to win. Does he trust this new regime to take the Raiders in the right direction? That’s what it’ll boil down to. Would you sign on the dotted line if you weren’t sure about the team’s future?

Now, here’s where Tom Brady comes into play. As a minority owner, Brady’s got a front-row seat to this drama. And you know, TB12 doesn’t mess around with mediocrity. Keeping Crosby in black and silver seems like a no-brainer. The guy’s not just a pass rusher; he’s the heartbeat of this defense. Letting him go would be like handing the other team the Lombardi Trophy before kickoff. But retaining him will take more than just cash—it’s about convincing Crosby that the Raiders are serious about winning.

The Raiders have tools to work with: the third most draft capital and the second most cap space heading into the offseason. That’s prime real estate to rebuild a competitive roster. But none of it will matter if Crosby isn’t on board. The defense fell off when he hit the IR last season, and the sack numbers plummeted. Losing him for good would leave a gap so big, even Brady couldn’t fill it with his GOAT magic.

So, what’s next? The Raiders need to make some moves, fast. A solid GM and head coach are step one, but locking Crosby into a long-term deal is step two. Without him, the Raiders’ defense is like a blitz with no follow-through—all hype, no hit. Here’s hoping Vegas figures it out because, let’s face it, no one wants to see Maxx Crosby dominating in a different jersey.