Hold onto your helmets, football fans, because the Maxx Crosby trade rumors are heating up—and the San Francisco 49ers might be left in the dust. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite the buzz, the 49ers aren’t even on the shortlist of teams vying for the star defensive end, according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. Instead, it’s the Los Angeles Rams, along with six other teams—Dallas, Chicago, Baltimore, Buffalo, New England, and Philadelphia—who are keeping a close eye on Crosby’s availability. Breer boldly predicts a trade could happen as early as this week, though he cautions that the Las Vegas Raiders likely won’t fetch the kind of blockbuster deal they got for Khalil Mack in 2018, or even what the Cowboys received for Micah Parsons last year. Why? Crosby’s age and contract status set him apart from those younger, rookie-contract prospects. And this is the part most people miss: while Crosby’s desire to win makes him a hot commodity, his advanced stage in his career could make teams hesitant to part with multiple first-round picks. For 49ers fans, this is a tough pill to swallow, especially if Crosby lands with a division rival like the Rams. But here’s the kicker: the 49ers’ absence from Breer’s list doesn’t completely rule them out—it just suggests they’re not leading the pack. Could they be prioritizing a cost-controlled rookie wide receiver or another position over Crosby? Or are they simply playing their cards close to the chest? One thing’s for sure: if Crosby is traded for a bargain, it’ll sting for Niners fans. Now, here’s the question for you: Do the 49ers need Maxx Crosby more than they think, or are they smart to focus on building through the draft? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this debate is far from over.
