ESPN proposed a trade sending Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Eagles for a first-round pick, a future third-rounder, and edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. The potential deal hinges on Philadelphia's ability to manage its salary cap.
The Eagles' appetite for defensive line talent may lead them to Las Vegas. ESPN has proposed a trade that would send Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby to Philadelphia.
The hypothetical deal: Philadelphia receives Crosby in exchange for the 23rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a 2027 third-round pick, and edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr.
Crosby, who will be 29 in August, reportedly wants to win “sooner rather than later.” While he has expressed a desire to remain with the Raiders, the team's trajectory may not align with his timeline. The proposed trade to Philadelphia surfaces after a previous deal sending him to the Ravens fell through.
The Money Question
The Eagles’ general manager, Howie Roseman, has a history of pursuing elite defensive linemen via trade, but the financial implications of acquiring Crosby are significant. Philadelphia is currently allocating $219 million to its offense. While the defense’s $86 million figure is lower, that number is set to rise with upcoming extensions for Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean.
Adding Crosby’s salary would necessitate shifting resources from offense to defense, a potentially difficult task given the team’s existing commitments.
Draft Focus
Without the 23rd overall pick, the Eagles would need to address the safety position through other means. Several mock drafts have the Eagles targeting that position in the first round. One mock draft has them selecting Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman, citing the “bleak, at best” outlook at safety. The hope is that Drew Mukuba “can come back at full strength,” but the need remains. Thieneman is described as “elite his whole college career” and capable of thriving at either safety spot.
Another mock draft has the Eagles selecting iOL Olaivavega Ioane from Penn State. The rationale centers on the long-term health of Landon Dickerson, who has a history of injuries. While Lane Johnson is frequently mentioned as a potential future replacement target, the author suggests Dickerson is “more likely to retire after the 2026 season.” Tyler Steen is under contract through 2026, but his starting job security is not assured.
Cornerback Strength
The Eagles did make one notable addition this offseason, acquiring cornerback Riq Woolen from Seattle. Woolen, standing 6-4 and weighing 210 pounds, ran a 4.26 40-yard dash at the 2022 Combine. With 53 career starts, 12 interceptions, and 53 passes defended, he brings experience and playmaking ability. The Eagles now boast two top-three corners in Mitchell and Woolen. Cooper DeJean is also considered among the best nickelbacks in the league. This trio, under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, could form “a special group.”
The A.J. Brown Factor
A potential A.J. Brown trade remains a topic of discussion. Despite fan fatigue, the possibility persists, particularly after June 1. While bringing Brown back is the preferred football outcome, league executives reportedly anticipate him landing in New England.
Analysis
The Eagles clearly have a plan to allocate resources toward the defense, but the question is to what degree. The price for Crosby, as outlined, is steep, particularly given the existing financial commitments and the looming extensions for key defensive players. Roseman must weigh the immediate impact of acquiring Crosby against the long-term financial implications and the potential loss of draft capital.
The draft will be the next indication of the Eagles' long-term strategy. Do they prioritize immediate needs like safety with their available picks, or do they address future needs along the offensive line? The approach taken will signal the team's direction heading into the 2026 season.
