Raiders Welcome New Head Coach Klint Kubiak
LAS VEGAS — The Raiders warmly welcomed Klint Kubiak on Tuesday, showcasing their franchise history with legends like Marcus Allen and Howie Long in attendance. The podium sparkled with Super Bowl rings and Hall of Fame jackets, making a grand statement for their new head coach.
Among the gathered crowd were current players, including the young running back Ashton Giunty, all eager to hear from Kubiak and learn how he plans to elevate the Raiders to similar triumphs.
However, the absence of standout defensive end Maxx Crosby was quite noticeable at the press conference. Surprisingly, he was within the team’s facilities, even sharing a coffee with Kubiak before the formal introduction.
“I loved talking to him, and I look forward to continuing the conversation,” Kubiak mentioned. He emphasized how Crosby was the first to hit the gym that morning, inspiring his own motivation.
Yet, as Kubiak took the stage, Crosby remained in the background. Whether that was to respect Kubiak’s moment or possibly a signal about his future with the team was unclear.
Speculation swirled during Super Bowl week that Crosby might be hesitant to continue rebuilding with the Raiders. There are suggestions he might push for a trade to a team more prepared for immediate success. Crosby is signed through the 2029 season, with a significant portion of his contract—around $60 million—being guaranteed in the next two years. This makes trading him relatively straightforward, with sources indicating that his market value could easily fetch at least a second-round pick.
Crosby did have a rough season, missing the last two games due to a knee injury that required surgery. However, he is expected to be ready for the upcoming season.
If the Raiders were to trade Crosby, it could align with his own desires and assist the team’s rebuilding efforts.
It’s certainly possible that Crosby might have already played his last game for the team that drafted him in 2019. Kubiak expressed admiration for Crosby and saw him as essential for the team’s future, stating, “We want him to be a part of our future success. There’s no question about it. He’s one of the best players in the NFL.”
But the situation is complex. At nearly 29, Crosby has experienced numerous coaching changes and organizational shifts, resulting in just one playoff appearance and one winning season. It wouldn’t be unreasonable for him to ponder his future and whether his window for success aligns with the Raiders’ timeline.
Raiders owner Mark Davis mentioned he hasn’t discussed a potential trade with Crosby but maintained that he wants Crosby to remain with the team. “Max was a great, great Raider,” Davis said. “He’s been growing here for seven or eight years, and he’s still a Raider. So everything’s fine.”
