Rams Insider Suggests Team Could Go After Raiders Superstar

Rams potential target Maxx Crosby walking on the field

The Rams have never been shy about swinging big, and the chatter around the league suggests they may be lining up their next fastball. According to Rams insider Nate Atkins of The Athletic, Los Angeles is a team to “keep an eye on” if the Raiders stumble early and decide to revisit trade talks for All‑Pro pass rusher Maxx Crosby.

This isn’t smoke without fire. The Rams have a long history of pushing chips to the center of the table when they see a chance to elevate their roster. And with Matthew Stafford still capable of steering a contender, the franchise appears ready to explore another aggressive move if the timing breaks right.

Why Maxx Crosby Fits the Rams’ DNA

Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) on the field prior to a game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) on the field prior to a game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Crosby is the type of player the Rams typically chase. He’s a physical edge rusher who changes blocking schemes the moment he steps on the field. The Raiders nearly traded him once already, agreeing to a blockbuster deal with the Ravens before Baltimore backed out over concerns tied to a knee issue.

Since then, Crosby has repaired his relationship with Las Vegas, but insiders say that goodwill only goes so far if the Raiders open the season in a hole. A slow start could make the Raiders explore trading Crosby once again.

Rams’ Willingness to Trade 2027 Draft Capital Sets Them Apart

Most teams are treating the 2027 draft class like gold. It’s widely viewed as deeper and more talented than 2026, making clubs hesitant to part with future picks. But Atkins reports the Rams “want to be” one of the rare teams willing to trade from that class.

This tracks with general manager Les Snead’s long‑established philosophy. He’s never been afraid to flip premium picks for proven stars, and he’s already hinted this offseason that the team’s quarterback plan gives them more flexibility to chase impact players around Stafford.

If the Rams believe they’ll be drafting near the bottom of the first round in 2027, that pick becomes even easier to move.

What Would It Take to Land Crosby?

The Raiders aren’t expected to let Crosby go cheaply. Reports indicate Las Vegas would likely demand at least two first‑round picks, or something around that range. It’s a premium price to pay, but the Rams would be receiving a premium player in a potential deal.

But the Rams have shown they’re willing to pay for elite production. Their acquisition of Von Miller in 2021 helped fuel a Super Bowl run, and adding Crosby would echo that same win‑now mentality. Atkins notes any serious trade discussions wouldn’t heat up until October, once both teams have a clearer sense of their trajectory.

If Crosby is healthy and dominant early, the price could rise. If the Raiders falter, the market could open up, and he sees the Rams as a potential destination.

How Crosby Would Change the Rams’ Defense

Los Angeles already fielded one of the league’s top defenses in 2025, and adding Crosby would give them a premier edge presence to pair with their young core. Analysts believe his arrival could elevate the unit to the level of the NFL’s best, especially in a division where pressuring quarterbacks is non‑negotiable.

With a veteran roster facing one of the league’s toughest schedules, the Rams know their window is now. To add on, we don’t know how much longer Matthew Stafford will play. This is the type of move the Rams could make to ensure Stafford has the opportunity to win another ring before he retires.