The Washington Commanders could elevate their defense by acquiring four-time Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby through trade.
The Commanders made a bold move by selecting quarterback Jayden Daniels second overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, and a similar aggressive trade for Crosby could significantly enhance their defense. Tyler Brooke of The 33rd Team proposed this trade idea, suggesting that with Daniels on a rookie contract, Washington’s Super Bowl window might already be open. A move for Crosby would bolster their defense and make them a more dangerous NFC team.
Brooke highlights that Daniels’ affordable contract allows the Commanders to make high-impact moves. The last six Super Bowl-winning teams have had quarterbacks on rookie deals, showcasing how this financial flexibility enables win-now trades. Washington also has ample cap space ($99 million) and draft assets (particularly in 2026) to pursue a move for a star like Crosby.
A trade could be plausible as Crosby recently expressed uncertainty about his future with the Las Vegas Raiders, stating “we’ll see” when asked on The Rush podcast (via Tashan Reed of The Athletic).
A trade for Crosby could be a game-changer for Washington, providing the defense with a key player capable of transforming its performance in the same way Daniels has energized the offense.
Maxx Crosby Would Improve Commanders’ Defense Washington’s playoff position owes much to Daniels, while the defense has been inconsistent, ranking 18th in points allowed and struggling against the run, allowing 4.8 yards per carry. Crosby’s impact would be felt immediately, not just as a top-tier pass rusher but also in run defense, where he recorded 13.5 run stuffs despite a tough season with the Raiders, according to ESPN.
Crosby’s ability to disrupt plays is evident in his consistency, as he trails only Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro T.J. Watt for consecutive games with multiple tackles for loss, per KTNV’s Nick Walters. His presence on the Commanders’ defensive line would give them a formidable edge-setter and a powerful force up front. However, his biggest value lies in his ability to rush the passer.
With 59.5 career sacks, Crosby combines various pass-rush techniques, including brute strength, fast hands, quick takeoff, and excellent flexibility. A prime example of his ability to rush the passer is his sack against the Denver Broncos in Week 5, showcasing his swift hands and impressive agility, as highlighted by Ryan Holmes of Put On Raiders.
By adding Crosby to the line, the Commanders would have a complete defensive end capable of capitalizing on the attention paid to other key players like defensive tackles Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and Jer’Zhan ‘Johnny’ Newton. Crosby would elevate the play of those around him, making him worth the investment, especially since the Commanders have already made a similar high-profile move in the secondary.
Commanders Are Willing to Make Big Defensive Trades Washington’s general manager Adam Peters showed his willingness to make bold moves when he traded for cornerback Marshon Lattimore mid-season. The four-time Pro Bowler cost them a third, fourth, and sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, a high price, but the team is relying on Lattimore to shut down top receivers.
The Commanders could have similar expectations for Crosby, hoping he becomes the dominant
