Patriots, Eagles named top suitors for history-making $106 million five-time Pro Bowler originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
It would be foolish to expect trade noise in the NFL to slow down anytime soon, especially with the NFL Draft slated to begin on Thursday.
As it relates to possible suitors for a history-making five-time Pro Bowler (he became the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history last March), USA Today’s Ayrton Ostly believes the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots should be atop the list.
“Maxx Crosby looked poised for a change in scenery with a move to Baltimore from Las Vegas as the Raiders rebuild under coach Klint Kubiak,” Mostly wrote Monday.
“That ultimately wasn’t to be, but there’s a chance he still gets moved during the NFL draft if the price moves enough for other teams to be interested. He’ll still require at least a first-round pick and multiple Day 2 selections.”
“The Eagles could be an interesting trade partner in this scenario. Could the Eagles take a gamble and move off of Carter for Crosby and future draft capital? The Patriots have more draft capital than most in 2026 and could package part of that for Crosby to ensure they continue to contend in the AFC East.”
If the Patriots managed to poach A.J. Brown from the Eagles and Crosby from the Raiders during the same offseason, the public would have every reason to hop on the hype train before the 2026-27 campaign kicks off.
Adding an established No. 1 receiver and versatile edge rusher two months after reaching the Super Bowl would give the franchise the weapons necessary to get over the hump.
While it’s far more likely the Patriots acquire Brown while striking out on Crosby, it’s still a possibility as of late April.
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