49ers Enter Fierce Trade Battle for Maxx Crosby Against NFL Heavyweights Like the Bills, Lions, Cowboys — And Crosby’s Response Has the Entire League Talking

San Francisco — The 2026 NFL offseason took an unexpected turn when Maxx Crosby suddenly became the center of league-wide attention. With the San Francisco 49ers aggressively searching for a defensive spark, the pursuit of Crosby has quickly evolved into a full-scale bidding war involving more than 20 teams, including powerhouse franchises such as the Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, and Dallas Cowboys.

San Francisco’s urgency is easy to understand. The 2025 season exposed a glaring weakness in the 49ers’ defense, as the team managed only around 20 total sacks, a startling figure for a Super Bowl-caliber roster. Season-ending injuries to Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams stripped the defense of its ability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks, forcing the front office to consider bold, franchise-altering solutions rather than short-term fixes.

That is where Crosby enters the picture. The Las Vegas Raiders star is not merely a productive pass rusher, but one of the league’s most relentless defensive forces. Known for his nonstop motor and physical edge, Crosby routinely ranks among the NFL leaders in pressures, defensive snaps, and disruption. His presence alone changes how offenses prepare, making him a natural target for contenders looking to tilt the balance of power.

According to ESPN reports, interest in Crosby is described as “extremely strong,” with more than half the league at least exploring the possibility of a trade. The Bills view him as the missing piece to elevate an already formidable defense. The Lions see him as a cornerstone addition to push their NFC ambitions further. The Cowboys believe Crosby could finally provide consistent, game-changing pressure in the postseason.

What truly ignited the story, however, was not the list of suitors but Crosby’s own response. Speaking publicly amid the swirling speculation, he neither demanded a trade nor dismissed the rumors outright. Instead, Crosby emphasized his calm perspective, explaining that he understands his journey and refuses to be influenced by outside noise. That measured, confident stance immediately caught the attention of executives, players, and fans across the league.

For the 49ers, Crosby’s comments represent both opportunity and challenge. Winning this race would require more than draft capital or salary-cap maneuvering. San Francisco must convince Crosby that it offers the clearest path to sustained success. A defense featuring Crosby on one edge and a healthy Bosa on the other could instantly redefine the NFC landscape.

Meanwhile, the Raiders retain leverage. Crosby remains the face of their defensive identity, and moving him would only make sense if the return accelerates a broader rebuild. Any deal involving Crosby would almost certainly rank among the most significant trades of the decade.

In the end, the pursuit of Maxx Crosby is about more than acquiring a star defender. It is a test of ambition among the NFL’s elite franchises. For the 49ers, it could be the move that shapes their season. For Crosby, a single composed response has already been enough to make the entire league stop and listen.