The Chicago Bears are not yet focused on the 2026 offseason. For the first time in half a decade, they are playing meaningful football in December. Having already clinched a playoff berth, the team is aiming higher. A win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday would further their aims of winning the division and maybe even claiming the #1 seed in the NFC. However, recent events may compel GM Ryan Poles to begin formulating a plan of action. It appears things have finally reached a breaking point between Maxx Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders.
It had been felt since last year that the superstar pass rusher was growing frustrated with the team’s inability to build a winner. He had hoped the arrival of Pete Carroll might change that. Instead, the Raiders have one of the worst records in the NFL and are vying for the #1 pick. Then, to rub salt in the wound, they’ve decided to shut Crosby down for the season with two games left despite his protests. Not only is that a personal insult to his toughness, but it is likely also a clear sign to him that the team is trying to tank for the top pick.
Maxx Crosby feels almost certain to get traded.
He will be 29 years old next season. Las Vegas just gave him a contract extension in March, meaning he’s under a hefty deal through 2029. If the Raiders aim to rebuild and he wants out, a trade is inevitable. This feels like a no-brainer idea for the Bears. They have one of the weaker pass rushes in the NFL. While Montez Sweat is still good, nobody else has really stepped up to complement him. Dayo Odeyingbo, their prized free agent addition, tore his Achilles, as did rookie Shemar Turner. They need a dynamic rusher who can give them more juice. Maxx Crosby is an ideal candidate.
The five-time Pro Bowler has at least 10 sacks in three of his last four seasons. There is no reason to think he will run out of gas for at least another few years. For Chicago, it is about finding the cap space and determining the price tag. They currently have only $3 million available. They’ll need to do some restructuring and make some potential cuts to find the room.
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As for price? That isn’t easy to gauge.
Micah Parsons went to Green Bay for two 1st round picks. Crosby is two and a half years older. Richard Seymour was 29 when New England traded him. That cost a 1st round pick. Von Miller was 32 in 2021. He went for 2nd and 3rd round picks. Atlanta gave up a 1st round pick for John Abraham in 2006 for a 1st round pick. Given Crosby’s prestige, it will take at least a 1st rounder to get him, and probably an additional day two pick.
There is no doubt he’d be interested in joining the Bears, since he wants to play for a winner. Getting to play across from Ben Johnson’s offense would be a win-win scenario for everybody involved.
