kk.Pittsburgh Steelers Send Trade Offer for Maxx Crosby — One the Las Vegas Raiders Can’t Say No To
As the 2025 offseason begins, the Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to make a move that could elevate their defense to elite status. With Mike Tomlin at the helm and a young, talented roster, the Steelers are ready to make the jump from playoff contenders to championship hopefuls.
One glaring need on their defense has been a dominant pass rusher to complement T.J. Watt, and the opportunity to add Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders has emerged as a potential game‑changer.
Crosby, a two‑time Pro Bowl edge rusher, is widely regarded as one of the most disruptive defenders in the NFL. His relentless style of play and ability to collapse the pocket would give Pittsburgh an explosive pass-rush duo in combination with Watt, allowing the Steelers to impose their will on opposing offenses.
Why Pittsburgh Should Make This Move
The Steelers’ defense is already one of the best in the league, but the addition of Crosby would make it an absolute nightmare for quarterbacks.
Despite Watt’s dominance, Pittsburgh has struggled to generate consistent pressure from the opposite side, and adding Crosby would instantly elevate their pass rush to one of the most feared in the NFL.
The combination of Crosby and Watt would force opposing offensive coordinators to double-team both, freeing up opportunities for other defenders and potentially changing the entire complexion of games.
With Kenny Pickett and the offense continuing to develop, the Steelers need to take advantage of their window with a defense that could lead them deep into the playoffs.
Adding Crosby not only fills a key need but also sets the stage for the Steelers to become a complete team, capable of both shutting down high‑powered offenses and making timely plays on offense when needed.
Proposed Trade (Hypothetical)
Steelers receive:
• Maxx Crosby, DE (Las Vegas Raiders)
Raiders receive:
• 2026 first‑round pick
• 2027 first‑round pick
• 2026 third‑round pick
• LB Devin Bush (or equivalent defensive asset)
• WR George Pickens (or offensive depth piece)
This trade gives the Raiders two future first‑round picks, a third‑round pick, and valuable players in Bush and Pickens. Bush would help provide depth to the Raiders’ linebacker corps, while Pickens would add a dynamic receiving threat.
For Pittsburgh, it’s a risk worth taking to solidify their defense and build around their championship window.
The Strategic Logic
For Pittsburgh, acquiring Crosby isn’t just about adding another defender — it’s about establishing an identity. The Steelers have long prided themselves on tough, hard‑nosed defense, and Crosby fits that mold perfectly. With Watt leading one side of the defensive line and Crosby attacking from the other, the Steelers would have one of the most formidable pass-rush duos in the league, which would allow them to control games on defense and set the tone for the rest of the team.
Additionally, adding Crosby would give the Steelers’ defense the edge it needs to become one of the most disruptive forces in the NFL. With key players like Minkah Fitzpatrick anchoring the secondary and Cam Heyward commanding the front, adding Crosby could be the final piece to make Pittsburgh’s defense truly elite.
Outlook
While the Raiders have not shown any inclination to part with Crosby, a trade offer of this magnitude could be too good to pass up. The Steelers are in a position to make a serious push in the AFC, and Crosby’s presence on their defense would immediately raise their status as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
With the Steelers ready to make a push, the offer on the table could be one that reshapes both teams’ futures. Can the Raiders afford to say no to a deal that could set them up for a successful rebuild while helping the Steelers take the next step toward a championship?
