Released: Second-Round Pick and Raiders DE Maxx Crosby to Sign a ‘Lock-In’ Deal with Cowboys in Exchange for First-Round Pick and George Pickens
A stunning trade scenario has set the NFL offseason ablaze: star pass rusher Maxx Crosby potentially heading from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Dallas Cowboys in a blockbuster exchange that would reshuffle draft capital and top young talent across the league.
The Rumor Mill Explodes
NFL insider Dan Graziano of ESPN floated one of the more dramatic trade proposals yet in the 2026 offseason speculation cycle: the Dallas Cowboys would acquire Crosby and a second-round draft pick, while the Raiders would receive Pro Bowl wideout George Pickens and a 2026 first-round pick.
Yahoo Sports
Though presented as a theoretical construct rather than confirmed negotiations, this idea has garnered attention due to its implications for both franchises.
Why This Trade Is Even on the Table
Here’s the logic behind the proposed swap:
Dallas’ Defensive Needs: The Cowboys have been searching for a dominant edge presence after losing key defenders and struggling to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks. Crosby, a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most disruptive defenders, would immediately elevate Dallas’ defense.
Pickens and Cap Considerations: Pickens, coming off a breakout 2025 with over 1,400 receiving yards and nine scores, is entering a contract uncertainty phase. The Cowboys have reportedly been hesitant to lock him into a top-of-market long-term deal, raising the possibility of trading him in a move that helps balance cap commitments.
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Raiders Rebuild Logic: Las Vegas appears poised for a full roster reset around young talent and draft capital. Taking on a young elite receiver like Pickens plus a first-round pick would give them offensive firepower and flexibility that suits a long-term rebuild. ESPN.com
Fan Reaction and Franchise Implications
The reaction among Cowboys supporters, at least on social platforms and fan forums, has been largely skeptical. Many fans argue that forfeiting Pickens — a rising star receiver and key offensive weapon — would cripple Dallas’ offense even if Crosby boosts the defense. Critics insist that sacrificing Pickens and draft capital is too high a price for a single impact player.
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Meanwhile, the Raiders have been publicly non-committal about moving Crosby, signaling they value him as a cornerstone piece amid broader organizational change. Reports suggest any deal involving Crosby would command premium compensation, potentially mirroring the haul the Cowboys once extracted in the Micah Parsons trade.