LAS VEGAS, NV — In a move that shocked the NFL world and redefined the concept of player loyalty, Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby turned down a historic three-year, $156 million contract from an unnamed team that would have made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
The offer reportedly included $92.2 million guaranteed, with escalators that could have pushed total earnings beyond $175 million. The deal also extended Crosby’s tenure through the 2029 season, offering both financial security and championship potential with a team coming off a deep playoff run.
But for Crosby, it wasn’t enough.
“Money talks, but legacy screams,” Crosby said in an emotional press conference at Raiders Headquarters in Henderson. “I was born for this shield. My blood runs silver and black. I don’t care if they offer me half the league—I’m a Raider until they bury me in Allegiant Stadium.”
The Offer That Could’ve Changed the League
The mystery team behind the offer is rumored to be the New York Jets, who are reportedly in “win-now” mode and sought a dominant pass-rusher to pair with their already elite defense. Sources close to the negotiations said that Jets owner Woody Johnson personally flew to Las Vegas to pitch the deal, offering Crosby “the keys to New York.”
The contract would have shattered the previous record for non-QB contracts—eclipsing deals held by players like Aaron Donald and Nick Bosa—and placed Crosby firmly in the financial tier of elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow.
Why He Said No
Despite the life-changing numbers, Crosby said his decision was spiritual.
“I came into this league with a chip on my shoulder. The Raiders believed in me when nobody else did. This city, this locker room, this fanbase—they made me who I am. I’m not chasing a bigger bag. I’m building something right here.”
Crosby has been the face of the Raiders defense since being drafted in 2019. Over six seasons, he’s racked up 73 sacks, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 Pro Bowl nods, becoming a fan favorite known for his relentless motor and leadership.
The Raiders Respond
Raiders head coach Pete Carroll praised Crosby’s loyalty and called him “the heartbeat of our defense.”
“Maxx had every reason to go. But he stayed. That says everything you need to know about him—not just as a player, but as a man,” Carroll said.
Team owner Mark Davis also hinted that a revised extension is in the works to honor Crosby’s commitment.
“We’re not letting Maxx walk into the sunset without giving him his flowers—and his fair share,” Davis told reporters.
What It Means for the Raiders
With Crosby reaffirming his commitment, the Raiders continue to solidify their defensive identity. Paired with rookie phenom Ashton Jeanty on offense and strong leadership from coach Carroll and part-owner Tom Brady, the Raiders are entering a new era of grit, loyalty, and calculated aggression.
This move may also spark a ripple effect across the league—challenging star players to consider more than just dollar signs when building their careers.
In a league where free agency is often seen as business-first, Maxx Crosby just reminded everyone that, for some, it’s still about the colors you bleed.
