The New England Patriots have made their need to improve the club's pass rush, specifically on the outside, crystal clear since losing Super Bowl LX. Fortunately, there will be plenty of opportunities to address this area of weakness in a big way in the coming months, perhaps even sooner.
Disgruntled Las Vegas Raiders star edge defender Maxx Crosby has been atop Patriots' fans' wishlist for quite some time. Yet, much to folks in Foxborough's chagrin, the idea of acquiring him has felt far-fetched, largely because of an astronomical asking price — until now.
Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer would "lean toward" Crosby getting dealt, "and maybe this week." Moreover, New England is reportedly among the squads "keeping tabs" on the five-time Pro Bowler.
Patriots' odds of trading for Raiders star EDGE Maxx Crosby may have just increased
Crosby has repeatedly expressed his desire to be a "Raider for life." However, he's also made it crystal clear that he's tired of losing, which doesn't figure to change in Las Vegas anytime soon.
That's why contenders like the Patriots have been monitoring the situation, and at long last, they may finally get an opportunity to pounce.
New England will have options in free agency and the draft, though Crosby would give them the best shot at returning to the Big Game. He has established himself as a true one-man wrecking crew and is firmly in his prime (turning 29 in August). Adding a player of this caliber onto a Patriots team just won the AFC title would be seismic.
Since entering the NFL in 2019, Crosby ranks sixth in sacks (69.5). He led the league in tackles for loss in back-to-back campaigns during this stretch (2022 and 2023). His efforts haven't gone unnoticed, culminating in two All-Pro bids and consideration for Defensive Player of the Year twice.
A dominant force and highly respected leader, Crosby profiles as the type of "all-in" move the Patriots make to build on their momentum from 2025. It will take a massive haul to bring him in, but the upside is well worth it for them. He has the talent to give New England franchise quarterback Drake Maye another shot at the Lombardi Trophy.
For what it's worth, landing Crosby wouldn't come without risk. He's missed seven contests over the past two seasons and is currently recovering his "eighth surgery in seven years." The longtime Raider is notably signed through 2029 and makes $35.5 million annually.