Price for Maxx Crosby trade revealed as Raiders weigh their options

The Las Vegas Raiders are in an interesting spot with less than two weeks left before the NFL trade deadline. The team had agreed in March to trade edge defender Maxx Crosby, one of the franchise's legendary names. However, the Baltimore Ravens backed out of the deal and cited health reasons. Most general managers around the league did not find that explanation convincing. Crosby wants to play in nearly every game of the season and be on the field with a full roster.

The Raiders are rebuilding around first-round quarterback Fernando Mendoza and trying to instill a winning habit under young head coach Klint Kubiak. Veteran Kirk Cousins is fighting to lead the league in touchdown passes, so the team prefers to stick with him for now.

The Raiders started the season as a surprise team by winning their first three games, but after a tough run of games they have dropped to 3-4. An easier schedule in the coming weeks could help the team catch its breath. However, Vegas's failure to build a home-field advantage and to make fans feel their loyalty to the team remains a significant problem.

Minority owner Tom Brady is reported to be heavily involved in strategic decisions like this one. The price that has surfaced in the Crosby trade talks is notable. In March, the Raiders agreed to send the player to Baltimore for two first-round picks. One NFL general manager said the team would not accept an offer below that level. The same general manager stressed that Crosby is still a dominant player despite his knee problem.