Published on: February 25, 2026, 10:41h.

Updated on: February 25, 2026, 10:41h.

• Raiders GM John Spytek addressing the media at NFL Combine
• Crosby trade talks dominate NFL headlines
• DraftKings projects Raiders’ regular-season Over/Under win total at 5.5

The Las Vegas Raiders, who wrapped up the previous NFL season with a 3-14 record, are again at the center of offseason speculation, with sportsbooks estimating their 2026-27 regular season victory total at 5.5. This scenario has fans and analysts intrigued.

Raiders’ Reconstruction Strategy

A key topic involves star defensive end Maxx Crosby. Reports suggest that Crosby is seeking a trade from Las Vegas as he prefers not to be part of a rebuilding process. This speculation was highlighted by outlets such as Fox Sports and ESPN. Additionally, The Athletic indicated that Crosby is interested in potentially joining the New England Patriots under coach Mike Vrabel.

The Raiders appear to be gearing up for a rebuild, boasting a new young head coach in Klint Kubiak, the top pick in the forthcoming draft, and nearly $90 million in salary cap space, as per Spotrac. Moving Crosby, especially in exchange for a Micah Parsons-like deal, could catalyze this rebuilding effort. For instance, in August, the Dallas Cowboys traded their two-time All-Pro edge rusher to the Green Bay Packers for three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round draft picks.

However, during a press conference at the NFL Combine, Raiders GM John Spytek expressed his expectation that Crosby will don a Raiders uniform when the season opens:

“Maxx is an elite player, and I’ve been very candid since I arrived here that we need top-tier talent on our team. It’s crucial to construct a winning roster without elite players. I have a strong relationship with Maxx; he’s in the facility daily, focusing on his recovery. We communicate regularly, which strengthens our connection.”

Top Overall Draft Choice

Crosby, at 28 years old and weighing 255 pounds at 6-foot-5, has accrued 69.5 career sacks and has led the NFL in tackles for a loss multiple times. His accolades include five Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro recognitions and even recorded an interception last season. He is known as “Condor” for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks.

Crosby recently inked a three-year $106.5 million extension with the Raiders in 2025, with an average of $35.5 million annually through 2029. If he were to seek a trade, other potential suitors could include the Dallas Cowboys, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Chicago Bears.

Kubiak also indicated during his introductory press conference on February 11 that he anticipates Crosby will remain on the team next season.

“I enjoy discussing strategies with (Maxx),” he shared with reporters. “I’m eager to continue those discussions. He was the first one to arrive for workouts this morning. We aim for him to be a significant part of our success in the future. He’s among the NFL’s elite, and it’s a privilege to work with Maxx as he strives for continued success in our organization.”

Cap Space and Draft Prospects

With the first overall pick in the NFL Draft set for April 23, the Raiders are expected to select Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza. DraftKings has placed Mendoza’s odds of going first at -20000, with FanDuel and BetMGM following suit with similar lines.

Recently, DraftKings announced the regular-season win totals for 2026-27, placing the Las Vegas Raiders at 5.5 (+120 on the Over, -145 on the Under).

Spytek mentioned that while he is open to hearing offers for Crosby, there is a clear desire from both him and Kubiak to retain him, emphasizing Crosby’s importance to the team’s foundation. This approach also serves to connect with fans, especially since the Raiders need ticket sales. At 28, Crosby is aware of the physical toll of the game and seeks a chance to contend for a title.

Should another team present an enticing offer, it could necessitate a swift decision. Alternatively, Kubiak’s Raiders may opt for moves that signal their intent to compete next season, allowing Mendoza to learn behind a veteran presence.