Silver and Black Stalwart: Crosby's Future Anchored in Vegas
In a definitive statement that should quell months of speculation, Las Vegas Raiders General Manager John Spytek has publicly committed to keeping defensive powerhouse Maxx Crosby in the fold. Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, Spytek left little room for doubt about the team's intentions for their premier pass rusher, directly addressing rumors that have suggested Crosby might be seeking a new home.
"I Do. Yes." – A Clear Answer on Crosby's Return
When pressed on whether he anticipates Crosby suiting up for the Raiders in the 2026 season, Spytek's response was immediate and unambiguous: "I do. Yes." This firm declaration serves as the strongest public rebuttal yet to whispers that the five-time Pro Bowler had grown discontented with the organization's direction. Spytek emphasized that shopping Crosby is not on the agenda, framing the elite defender as a critical building block for the franchise's future.
However, in the pragmatic world of NFL management, no door is ever completely sealed. Asked if Crosby was "untradeable," Spytek offered the measured response expected of a GM, noting he is "always listening" to calls. He applied the same philosophy to the Raiders' coveted No. 1 overall draft pick, which the team is overwhelmingly expected to use on quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza rather than deal away.
An Elite Cornerstone for the Rebuild
Spytek's reluctance to entertain offers for Crosby stems from a core team-building philosophy. "Maxx is an elite player, and I've been very up front from the start... we're in the business of having really good players on the team, and we need a lot more of them," Spytek explained. "It's hard to build a great team without elite players." He positioned Crosby not as a trade chip, but as a foundational piece essential to executing a successful turnaround in Las Vegas.
Beyond the on-field production, Spytek was keen to highlight the strength of his personal rapport with the star defender, aiming to dispel any narrative of discord. "Maxx and I have a great relationship," he stated. "He's in the building every day. We talk a lot on the phone, we text, so I have a great relationship with Maxx." The GM expressed comfort with their standing after multiple conversations this offseason, directly countering reports that Crosby was "done" with the Raiders.
From Top Pick to Turnaround?
Crosby's importance to the Raiders' identity cannot be overstated. Since being drafted in the fourth round in 2019, he has been the engine of the defense, amassing 69.5 career sacks, including 10 last season in just 15 games. His season ended early when the team placed him on injured reserve with a knee issue—a move that reportedly frustrated Crosby but ultimately helped secure the top draft selection.
Spytek now envisions Crosby as a central figure in a dramatic franchise resurgence. Pointing to recent NFL history, he noted, "This league is littered with examples of teams that went from a top-five pick to the NFC championship, the Super Bowl. We've seen it the last couple of years." He name-checked the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots as models for a rapid leap from the cellar to contention.
The Raiders' path forward is clear: build around elite talent. With Fernando Mendoza likely arriving as the new face of the offense, retaining a defensive centerpiece like Maxx Crosby becomes even more crucial. Spytek's message is one of stability and intent: "We're going to build this team the right way." For Raiders fans, that blueprint unmistakably includes No. 98 wreaking havoc in the silver and black for the foreseeable future.
