Published on: February 10, 2026, 08:26h.
Updated on: February 10, 2026, 08:31h.
- Raiders unveil their new head coach, Klint Kubiak, during today’s press event
- Kubiak expressed his intent to retain star edge rusher Maxx Crosby
- Raiders possess the top NFL draft pick this upcoming April
The Las Vegas Raiders formally introduced their new head coach, Klint Kubiak, today, but the main highlight was a discussion about the future of standout defensive end Maxx Crosby.
The press conference was a standard introductory meeting, filled with compliments for Kubiak, reminiscing about former Raiders legends, and a celebration of the team’s facilities, history, and traditions.
Crosby’s future directly influences the Raiders’ direction. Should they utilize their $90 million salary cap to focus on immediate needs like the offensive line, aiming for short-term success?
Top Overall Draft Pick
Or, considering their choice of a 38-year-old head coach, do they lean towards a long-term strategy?
Reports suggest that Crosby is not keen on being part of a rebuilding phase. ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter noted that Crosby “isn’t particularly happy with the current situation.”
“I can’t say exactly what he conveyed to (minority Raiders owner) Tom Brady,” Schefter mentioned. “There is speculation around the league that he might desire a trade. The crucial question now is whether he will actually be traded.”
Return Similar to Micah Parsons
Recently, discussions about a potential trade have surfaced on social media. Schefter highlighted that if the Raiders do consider trading Crosby, they would expect a return similar to what the Dallas Cowboys received when they traded two-time All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round picks.
Kubiak and the Raiders seem committed to keeping Crosby within the organization. Although Crosby was present at the Raiders’ facility today, likely rehabbing his knee injury, he did not attend the press conference.
Conversation with Crosby
Kubiak shared that he had a conversation with Crosby.
“I had coffee with Maxx this morning,” said Kubiak. “I really enjoy discussing football with him. I look forward to continuing our discussions. He was the first to arrive this morning, working out. We’re keen on having him contribute to our success moving forward. He’s one of the top players in the league, so it’s a no-brainer to collaborate with Maxx and see him thrive in this organization.”
Last season, the Raiders allowed an average of 25.4 points per game, ranking 25th in the NFL, with a total yardage surrendered of 317.8 yards per game (14th in the league). The team’s defense garnered 16 turnovers, tying for 23rd overall.
Significant Salary Cap Flexibility
The Raiders are positioned at +18000 to clinch the Super Bowl next year, according to DraftKings. With a 3-14 finish, they also hold the top overall draft pick on April 23. The expectation is that they will select Heisman Trophy-winning QB Fernando Mendoza (-7000 at FanDuel to go first overall).
Clearly, optimizing Mendoza’s performance was a significant theme during Kubiak’s interviews with the Raiders, which included team GM John Spytek. Tom Brady was also involved in the discussions.
Kubiak’s coaching pedigree is well recognized. As the offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, he oversaw an offense that finished third in the NFL for scoring (28.4 points per game) and eighth in total yards (351.4 yards per game) in just one season in that capacity.
Sam Darnold’s Resurgence
The Seahawks’ offense set franchise records for points in a season (483) and highest point differential (+191).
After being released by the Minnesota Vikings, QB Sam Darnold thrived under Kubiak’s mentorship.
Darnold earned his second Pro Bowl selection, completing 67.7% of his passes for 4,048 yards with 25 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. His completion rate of 67.7% ranked seventh in the NFL and marked his career-best for a single season.
“Whether rebuilding or returning with aspirations for a Super Bowl, my focus remains unchanged,” Kubiak asserted. “Our preparation remains consistent. Every team starts next season undefeated. Therefore, the approach doesn’t shift significantly. It’s essential to pinpoint offseason team needs and concentrate on player acquisitions. Once the season kicks off, we will all be aligned.”