**Contract Tensions and Trade Buzz**
Crosby’s current contract runs through 2026, paying him $23.5M annually with $53M guaranteed. Despite this, ESPN’s Dan Graziano reports the Raiders view him as their “franchise cornerstone” and plan to negotiate an extension aligning his salary with top NFL edge rushers like T.J. Watt ($34M/year). However, Detroit has reportedly identified Crosby as a dream acquisition to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. Analysts argue this duo could transform the Lions’ defense—which ranked 23rd in sacks last season—into a Super Bowl-caliber unit.
**Crosby’s Stance**
While publicly committed to Las Vegas, Crosby hinted at frustration after a turbulent 2024 season where he played through an ankle injury requiring surgery. The Raiders’ instability—four coaching changes since 2019 and a 43-57 record during Crosby’s tenure—fuels speculation he may seek greener pastures. His social media farewell to retiring Cowboys guard Zack Martin (“Loved going to war against you”) added intrigue about his mindset.
**Raiders’ Counterplay**
New head coach Pete Carroll and GM John Spytek have prioritized retaining Crosby, emphasizing his league-leading 17 tackles for loss in 2024 despite missing five games. His $27.9M cap hit in 2025 makes a trade financially complex but not impossible. Detroit would likely need to offer multiple first-round picks to tempt Las Vegas.
**Statistical Dominance**
Crosby’s recent performance cements his elite status:
– 14.5 sacks and 23 tackles for loss in 2023 (1st-team All-Pro)
– 7.5 sacks and 43 pressures in just 12 games during injury-plagued 2024
– 52 career sacks since entering the league
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