Las Vegas Raiders’ Season Faces Challenges
The Las Vegas Raiders’ season has taken a concerning turn. After an impressive start with wins over the Dolphins, Chargers, and Saints, the team’s momentum has faltered. They have now suffered four consecutive defeats. The latest loss came against the Rams at Allegiant Stadium, with a final score of 35-21.
During the first half, the Rams overwhelmed the Raiders, scoring four consecutive touchdowns and establishing a 28-6 lead by halftime. Quarterback Kirk Cousins contributed 295 passing yards and two touchdowns. However, the Raiders struggled to establish a running game, accumulating only 48 rushing yards on 17 attempts, which averaged 2.8 yards per carry.
This loss has matched the records of both teams, with the Raiders falling to 3-4 and the Rams also sitting at 3-4. CBS Sports analyst Pete Prisco suggests that the Raiders should contemplate trading their star pass rusher, Maxx Crosby, especially since the team is in a rebuilding phase.
‘The trade deadline’s coming up. Maxx Crosby is a wanted commodity. And they traded Maxx Crosby once; let’s not forget that, and I’m sure people remind him of that all the time. So when the trade deadline comes, I think they should be sitting there and saying, You know what, we can get a bunch of assets for a guy that’s probably not going to be around here when we become something with our young quarterback,’ Prisco said.
Crosby remains integral to the Raiders’ defense, though his production has dipped this season. He has managed 18 combined tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble over seven games, a decline from the previous year when he recorded 73 tackles and 10 sacks in 15 games before a meniscus injury. Crosby, now 29, has faced persistent trade rumors, and previous plans to trade him to the Baltimore Ravens fell through due to medical concerns.
Trading Crosby appears logical for both parties. The Raiders could secure valuable draft picks for rebuilding around players like Fernando Mendoza, Ashton Jeanty, and Brock Bowers. Meanwhile, a contender could benefit from Crosby’s skills during a playoff campaign. Crosby could also pursue a Super Bowl opportunity unlikely with the current Raiders’ status. Teams like the Cowboys and Bears, who need defensive reinforcements, have shown interest. Discussions have also mentioned the Jaguars and 49ers. The NFL trade deadline is set for November 10.