San Francisco 49ers Were Never ‘in the Mix’ for Raiders Star Maxx Crosby; Could That Change?

Despite a recent mock proposal from Bleacher Report, the San Francisco 49ers don't appear to be attempting to trade for Las Vegas Raiders star edge rusher Maxx Crosby any time soon. 

Thanks to NBC Sports Bay Area reporter Jennifer Lee Chan, we've got more clarity on how San Francisco approached (or didn't) a potential pursuit of the 28-year-old, plus an example of what could pique GM John Lynch's interest. 

“I don’t think the 49ers were ever in the mix to trade for Maxx Crosby at any point just because he’s so expensive,” Lee Chan said on YouTube. “He’d cost a lot of money… [Albert Breer] was saying that if the Niners are interested in him, they should definitely wait to see how it all plays out."

Crosby was originally dealt to the Baltimore Ravens for first-round draft choices in 2026 and 2027 before the transaction was called off once the defensive end failed his physical. 

He's now back with the Raiders, but some have speculated whether or not Vegas will make him available again down the line. 

At first glance, Crosby's failed physical could hypothetically result in a "cheaper" trade package being required. However, I'd imagine the recent Myles Garrett blockbuster, which saw Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick and a 2029 third-round pick sent to Cleveland, could help Crosby maintain his value. 

While chasing the five-time Pro Bowler over the summer isn't something the Niners are currently prepared to do, Lee Chan speculated on a possible timeline should San Francisco eventually get involved. 

“And I totally understand what he’s saying. If the Raiders are 1-6 and the Niners are 6-1 by Week 7, right before the trade deadline, then maybe there’s some sort of deal they can work out. But right now, I just don’t think there’s any way that the 49ers could make a move for Maxx Crosby,” she continued. 

So, don't rule out a potential inquiry from Lynch. Just don't expect any traction any time soon. 

The Niners bolstered their defensive line in a big way this offseason with the addition of former Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizua, who brings 81 career quarterback hits to the Bay Area, which ranks fourth in the league since 2021. 

Additional help on the edge will always be welcome, but Lynch and company may look at cheaper external depth options before exploring any sort of blockbuster Crosby trade.