Max Crosby Signs Record-Breaking Contract Extension With Raiders
Max Crosby Signs Record-Breaking Contract Extension With Raiders...
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Max Crosby has agreed to a historic four-year, $120 million contract extension, the team announced Thursday. The deal makes Crosby the highest-paid non-quarterback in franchise history and solidifies his role as the cornerstone of the Raiders' defense.
The extension comes after Crosby's dominant 2025 season, where he recorded 15.5 sacks and earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection. The 28-year-old pass rusher has become one of the NFL's most feared defensive players since being drafted by the Raiders in 2019.
Raiders owner Mark Davis called Crosby "the heart and soul of this team" in a statement released Thursday morning. The contract includes $85 million guaranteed, a record for a defensive player in Raiders history, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Crosby's extension ends months of speculation about his future with the franchise. The Michigan native had expressed his desire to remain with the Raiders long-term, telling reporters in January: "I want to be here. This is where I belong."
The deal has sparked celebrations among Raiders fans, with #CrosbyStaying trending on Twitter Thursday afternoon. Many see the move as a sign the franchise is committed to building around its defensive leader rather than entering a full rebuild.
Analysts note the contract reflects Crosby's value beyond statistics. Despite playing on a struggling team, he's missed just one game in seven seasons while consistently facing double teams. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the NFL's second-best edge rusher in 2025.
The Raiders now turn their attention to other roster decisions, including potential extensions for quarterback Aidan O'Connell and wide receiver Davante Adams. Crosby's deal likely sets the market for premier defensive players seeking new contracts this offseason.
Training camp reports suggest Crosby will return to his familiar role as the leader of new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham's system when offseason workouts begin next month. The Raiders open their 2026 season September 11 against the Los Angeles Chargers.
