ClutchPoints
The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has reached a crisis point in 2025. Ranked dead last in the NFL in nearly every major defensive category, the Cowboys are desperately searching for solutions before their season completely derails. After trading away superstar linebacker Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers before the season for two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark, Dallas now finds itself in an ironic position: needing to use those assets to acquire another elite pass rusher.
Enter Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, one of the league’s most dominant and relentless edge rushers. The four-time Pro Bowler has been the subject of trade speculation throughout October, with multiple reports confirming the Cowboys have reached out about his availability. While Raiders owner Mark Davis has a deep affection for Crosby and the team recently signed him to a massive three-year, $106.5 million extension with $91.5 million guaranteed, the Cowboys possess the perfect package to make Las Vegas reconsider.
The Raiders are in full rebuild mode under first-year general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll. At 3-5 and having drafted running back Ashton Jeanty with the sixth overall pick in 2025, Las Vegas is clearly building for the future rather than competing now. Trading veteran quarterback Derek Carr ahead of the 2023 season signaled this direction, and dealing wide receiver Davante Adams during the 2024 campaign reinforced it.
Crosby, despite being arguably the Raiders’ best player, represents significant long-term financial commitment for a team not ready to contend. His $38.1 million cap hit in 2025 ranks among the highest for non-quarterbacks, and he’s owed $30 million guaranteed in 2026. For a rebuilding franchise that needs draft capital and young talent across the roster, converting Crosby’s value into multiple premium assets makes strategic sense. The Raiders could accelerate their rebuild by several years with the right offer, positioning themselves to compete when their young core matures.
Additionally, Crosby will turn 29 years old in 2026. While still in his prime, his peak years may not align with the Raiders’ championship window, which realistically won’t open until 2027 or beyond given their current roster construction.
Here’s the blockbuster offer Dallas should present to Las Vegas that checks every box for both organizations:
Cowboys Receive:
Raiders Receive:
This package gives the Raiders exactly what they need: two first-round selections in a strong 2026 draft class, a young defensive end with upside in Williams, and additional draft capital. With Green Bay currently sitting at 5-2, that Packers pick would likely fall in the late first round (picks 25-32), while Dallas’ own selection could be in the top 15 given their defensive struggles. That’s two premium picks to accelerate the rebuild.
Sam Williams, a second-round pick...
