The New England Patriots are known for their strategic moves and calculated decisions when it comes to building their team. So when news broke that the Las Vegas Raiders were asking for two first-round picks and a player in exchange for Maxx Crosby, it immediately caught the attention of Patriots fans and analysts alike.
According to a report by Pro Football Talk, the Raiders have set a high asking price for Crosby, who has been vocal about his desire to join the Patriots. This interest dates back to before the 2021 NFL Draft, when Crosby tweeted “New England sounds like a great place to be” in response to a fan’s question about where he would like to play.
Crosby’s admiration for the Patriots is understandable. The team has a long history of success and a winning culture that many players aspire to be a part of. And with the Patriots in need of a pass rusher, Crosby seems like a perfect fit.
But the question remains, is he worth the hefty price tag?
At just 24 years old, Crosby has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field. In his first two seasons with the Raiders, he recorded 17 sacks and 104 tackles, earning him a spot on the All-Rookie team in 2019. He also showed his versatility by playing both defensive end and outside linebacker, making him a valuable asset for any team.
But the Patriots have always been known for their shrewdness in the trade market, and it’s unlikely that they will be willing to part with two first-round picks and a player for Crosby. This is especially true considering the team’s recent draft success, with players like Mac Jones and Christian Barmore already making an impact in their rookie season.
However, if the Patriots do decide to make a move for Crosby, it could be a game-changer for their defense. With the departure of key players like Kyle Van Noy and Dont’a Hightower, the Patriots are in need of a dominant pass rusher to fill the void. Crosby’s speed, agility, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback make him a perfect fit for the Patriots’ defensive scheme.
But it’s not just his on-field abilities that make Crosby an attractive target for the Patriots. He also brings a strong work ethic and a winning mentality to the table. In an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Crosby’s former coach at Eastern Michigan University, Chris Creighton, praised his leadership and dedication to the game.
“He’s a guy that’s going to be the first one in the building and the last one to leave,” Creighton said. “He’s going to be the guy that’s going to be the hardest worker on the team.”
This type of attitude and work ethic aligns perfectly with the Patriots’ culture, making Crosby an even more desirable target for the team.
Of course, there are always risks involved in any trade, and the Patriots will have to carefully weigh the cost of acquiring Crosby. But if they do decide to make a move, it could pay off in a big way for the team.
In the end, it all comes down to whether the Patriots are willing to meet the Raiders’ asking price for Crosby. But one thing is for sure, the Patriots’ interest in him is a testament to his talent and potential. And if he does end up in New England, he could be the missing piece that helps the team make another run at the Super Bowl.
So while the price may be steep, the potential payoff could be well worth it for the Patriots. And for Crosby, the opportunity to play for a winning organization like the Patriots could be a dream come true. Only time will tell if this potential trade becomes a reality, but one thing is certain, the Patriots’ interest in Maxx Crosby is a sign of their commitment to building a championship team.