Latest Reports on Maxx Crosby Brings Bad News for Chiefs

The Las Vegas Raiders and the entire NFL were blindsided when the Baltimore Ravens rescinded their offer and backed out of a trade for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, which both teams agreed upon last week.

On Friday night, the Ravens and Raiders struck a blockbuster trade involving the 28-year-old pass rusher, with Baltimore sending a 2026 first-round pick (No. 14) and a 2027 first-round pick.

Oct 19, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) gestures as Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) looks on during the first quarter of the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

What the Ravens did has been heavily scrutinized around the league. Not only is revoking a deal because of concerns pertaining to a physical, which every team interested in acquiring Crosby was aware of, as the star pass rusher recently underwent meniscus surgery a couple of months ago. Additionally, the timing of Baltimore's decision was poor, as several teams, including the Raiders, invested significant money in free agents during the legal tampering window, which opened on Monday.

On Wednesday, The Athletic's Senior NFL Insider, Dianna Russini, made an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, stating, "There's a good chance that Max Crosby is a Raider for [2026]."

What This Means for the Chiefs

Sep 28, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) looks for an open receiver while being pressured by Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) in the second quarter at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

I know that I've said in recent weeks that Kansas City would prefer Crosby to stay in Las Vegas, rather than the Raiders compiling additional draft capital. However, based on the free agent acquisitions the Raiders have orchestrated, adding Crosby back into the fold creates a daunting situation within the AFC West and for the Chiefs.

Yes, recouping multiple first-round picks for Crosby would have been beneficial for Las Vegas' future, but now that we know where the roster currently stands, the Raiders' playoff aspirations are legitimate, and Crosby's presumed return solidifies that notion.

There is still a chance that the seven-year veteran is dealt at some point this offseason, but Las Vegas may not receive another package as good as what the Ravens initially agreed to. Because of that, the Raiders may feel better off keeping Crosby.

Would Keeping Crosby Make Raiders Legitimate AFC West Contenders?

Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) scrambles against Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Even before what transpired on Tuesday, Las Vegas should have been considered as a potential playoff team with a surplus of additions in free agency. If Crosby is not moved and suits up for the Raiders in 2026, they could shock the NFL and make a push for the AFC West.

Now, that's not saying that Las Vegas will end up winning the division, but the Chiefs failed to win the AFC West for the first time in 10 years. It will be a tall task for Kansas City to reclaim the divisional throne, and with the Raiders potentially a legitimate operation next season, it will make it more difficult to accomplish in 2026.