Raiders GM John Spytek breaks silence on Maxx Crosby saga at 2026 NFL Combine, expects pass rusher to return
CBS Sports
by
Jordan Dajani
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Raiders General Manager John Spytek has addressed the speculation surrounding star pass rusher Maxx Crosby at the 2026 NFL Combine, stating his expectation that Crosby will remain with the team next season. Despite recent reports suggesting potential discord within the franchise, Spytek emphasized Crosby’s importance to the Raiders’ rebuild, calling him an "elite player" and a cornerstone of their defense. While there has been speculation about a possible trade—potentially involving multiple draft picks—a deal does not appear imminent, as Spytek reaffirmed the team’s commitment to retaining Crosby.
The situation with Crosby has gained significant attention due to reports of internal friction within the Raiders organization. Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer and Albert Breer of *The MMQB* have both suggested that Crosby’s frustration stems from a clash with franchise leadership, including head coach Tom Brady and GM Alex Guerrero. These reports have fueled speculation about his future with the Raiders, despite Crosby himself expressing loyalty to the team in public statements.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026