This week, rumors have begun to swirl surrounding Cowboys star wide receiver George Pickens’ future in Dallas, as well as long-time Raider Maxx Crosby.
Many seem to believe that the Cowboys will be unable to work out a deal with the Pro Bowl wideout this offseason and instead will look to “tag and trade” Pickens. In serious need of defensive help, Maxx Crosby would certainly be on Dallas’ radar if Las Vegas chose to move on from the edge rusher.
With the 1st overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, the Raiders will likely select quarterback Fernando Mendoza, ushering in a new era in Las Vegas. After his breakout season in Dallas in 2025, Pickens would be an X factor for a promising rookie quarterback.
Pickens’ Season To Remember In Dallas
This season, Pickens racked up 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns, earning himself a spot in this year’s Pro Bowl, where he was named the Pro Bowl’s offensive MVP.
While adding Pickens may seem like a smart move, it’s hard to justify moving a franchise staple like Crosby in a player-for-player swap. It’s important to take a look at the larger picture for a potential Crosby trade.
Although Pickens flourished in Dallas in 2025, Dallas acquired Pickens in 2025, after he struggled with Pittsburgh’s young quarterbacks. Additionally, moving on from Crosby would create more problems for the Raiders on defense.
If the Raiders were to part ways with Crosby this offseason, Las Vegas would likely seek a deal that provided substantial draft capital instead of an outright player swap. Compensation for Crosby in a trade would be similar to what Green Bay sent to Dallas in exchange for Micah Parsons, which included two first-round picks and DT Kenny Clark.
