Max Crosby Becomes Highest-Paid Non-Quarterback in NFL History with Raiders Extension

The Las Vegas Raiders have solidified their defensive cornerstone, agreeing to a three-year,

$106.5M contract extension with star pass rusher Max Crosby. This deal makes Crosby the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, a testament to his dominance on the field and his significance to the franchise.

A Well-Deserved Payday

Since entering the league in 2019, Crosby has racked up an impressive 59.5 sacks, tying him for the fifth-most in the NFL during that span and placing him third in franchise history. Despite his individual success, the Raiders have struggled to find consistent team success, making the playoffs just once in Crosby’s six-year tenure.

Crosby’s impact on the Raiders’ defense has been undeniable. His relentless motor, leadership, and production have made him one of the most respected defensive players in the league. Though he battled injuries last season, his ability to disrupt opposing offenses remained evident, justifying the Raiders’ decision to secure his future with the team.

A Reflection of the Raiders’ Struggles

While Crosby’s contract extension is well-earned, it also underscores a broader issue for the Raiders: their inability to build a competitive roster around him. The team has struggled with poor draft selections, especially on defense, leaving Crosby as their lone defensive superstar.

“The Raiders have drafted so poorly elsewhere on defense that he is really the only star they’ve got,” analyst Mina Kimes noted. “But it makes sense—they’re building around him with the new regime.”

The Raiders’ investment in Crosby signals their commitment to a defensive identity under new head coach Pete Carroll. However, many remain skeptical about the team’s immediate prospects. Despite Carroll’s arrival, the Raiders still lack a franchise quarterback and have significant gaps to fill on both sides of the ball.

Impact on the NFL Market and the Cowboys’ Dilemma

Crosby’s record-breaking extension also has ripple effects beyond Las Vegas, particularly for other teams looking to lock down elite pass rushers. One such team is the Dallas Cowboys, who have yet to finalize a deal with their defensive star, Micah Parsons.

“This is a prime example of why the Cowboys’ approach to contract negotiations doesn’t work,” Kimes said. “They keep putting off Parsons’ deal, and now the price is only going up.”

With more pass rushers set to hit the market, Crosby’s contract sets a new benchmark, making it even more expensive for teams like the Cowboys to retain their stars.

Will the Raiders Turn It Around?

Despite Crosby’s extension, doubts remain about the Raiders’ ability to become true contenders. The AFC West remains one of the toughest divisions in football, and the Raiders have consistently found themselves at the bottom.

Prominent sports analyst Stephen A. Smith voiced his skepticism about the Raiders’ future success, stating, “I’m happy for Crosby—he deserves this money. But let’s be honest: the Raiders aren’t going to win anytime soon.”

The history of elite pass rushers on struggling teams further supports this notion. Crosby, Khalil Mack, T.J. Watt, and Myles Garrett have all had stellar careers, yet their teams have had little to no playoff success. Crosby’s contract secures his place as the face of the Raiders, but whether it leads to meaningful team success remains to be seen.

The Quarterback Question

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Raiders’ future is the quarterback position. Some have speculated about the possibility of acquiring Aaron Rodgers, but opinions remain divided on whether he would be the right fit.

“There’s this idea that Rodgers is a franchise savior, but the reality is he’s 40 years old and coming off an injury,” analyst Mina Kimes pointed out. “If the Raiders want to compete, they need to draft and develop a young quarterback, not rely on a short-term fix.”

Looking Ahead

For now, Crosby’s extension ensures that the Raiders will continue to build around him as they attempt to establish a new identity. Whether this leads to tangible success remains an open question, but one thing is certain: Max Crosby has earned every penny of his historic contract.