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Klint Kubiak: Maxx Crosby won't play in the preseason

Maxx Crosby will return to the Raiders in 2026 after a tumultuous offseason.

First seen Aug 21, 2026 · 8:01 PM UTC · last updated Aug 21 9:13 PM

Scoring Zone's Take

Maxx Crosby is a defensive lineman, so he doesn't carry standalone fantasy value in standard leagues unless you're in an IDP format. Still, this news is worth filing away as you build out draft boards, because the reporting confirms he'll remain in Las Vegas in 2026 despite what's described as a "tumultuous offseason." The fact that both outlets flag turbulence without specifying whether it's injury-related, contract-related, or something else means you should treat the underlying situation as unresolved — the confidence level here sits at just 50%, so don't lock in any assumptions about his workload or role.

For IDP-format drafters, Crosby staying with Oakland/Vegas is mildly reassuring simply because continuity in scheme and defensive personnel tends to support consistent pass-rush usage, which is the swing factor for sack and tackle production in those leagues. That said, the negative impact score paired with the vague "tumultuous" framing is a yellow flag — it suggests there's more to this story that hasn't been detailed yet, whether that's a lingering injury, a holdout situation, or an offseason distraction that could affect his conditioning or snap count entering the year.

Actionable takeaway: in IDP leagues, keep Crosby in your draft-prep tier as a productive pass rusher, but don't treat him as a lock for elite ADP value until more concrete details emerge on what caused the "tumultuous offseason." In standard leagues, this is a non-factor — no action needed. Monitor for follow-up reporting before finalizing draft rankings.

After Maxx Crosby’s tumultuous offseason, he is set to play for the Raiders in 2026.

Coverage from Yahoo Sports Nfl · read original