Tom Brady reportedly wouldn't have traded Maxx Crosby to the Patriots A blurb from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler highlights a key detail about the Maxx Crosby trade, citing an unnamed source involved in the deal. The source claims the Raiders were unwilling to send Crosby to the Patriots, with the reasoning that “no way Tom [Brady] was sending Maxx to [Mike] Vrabel.” This suggests Brady’s influence over the trade process, as he reportedly blocked the move despite the Patriots’ interest. The quote underscores Brady’s leverage within the Raiders organization, implying he could sway potential trade destinations. It also reflects Brady’s reluctance to aid the team with which he won six Super Bowls, despite the Patriots’ status as a rival in the past. The Ravens, who were significant adversaries during Brady’s time in New England, were considered a viable option for Crosby. However, the unnamed source’s statement suggests Brady had no issue sending Crosby to Baltimore but refused to send him to New England. The Ravens and Patriots remain in the same conference, and both teams would likely compete with the Raiders for playoff positioning if the Raiders become postseason contenders. While Brady’s ability to block the trade is questionable, especially if the Patriots offered more than other teams, the source’s assertion remains clear: Brady would not have sent Crosby to Vrabel and the Patriots. The broader context raises questions about the Raiders’ willingness to engage with the Patriots and Brady’s motivations. Vrabel, Brady’s former teammate and friend, is not a rival in the same way as Bill Belichick, who has no animosity toward Brady. The Patriots even built a Tom Brady statue at Gillette Stadium, symbolizing their respect for him. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the unnamed source’s claim adds intrigue to the situation.#maxx_crosby #raiders #tom_brady #patriots #mike_vrabel
NFL Free Agency Activity: Key Moves and Market Trends The NFL’s free agency window opened Monday, with teams aggressively pursuing top talent as negotiations intensify. The Raiders’ trade of Maxx Crosby to the Ravens for two first-round draft picks has sparked significant discussion, leaving the Cowboys disappointed after they declined to meet Las Vegas’ demand for two firsts. Dallas had hoped to secure Crosby with its 12th pick and a future second-rounder, but the Raiders prioritized draft capital, ultimately securing a deal with Baltimore. The Cowboys now face the challenge of finding a pass-rush replacement, with players like Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, and Odafe Oweh on their radar. The Eagles remain active in the market, seeking a steep price for A.J. Brown, with reports suggesting they want a first- and second-round pick. While the Patriots are in the mix, the Eagles are also exploring re-signing defensive end Jalen Phillips, who could command a deal exceeding $20 million annually. Philadelphia has also inquired about Minnesota’s Jonathan Greenard, a cheaper option than Crosby, though Greenard’s current contract, which includes $38 million over two years, complicates negotiations. Defensive tackle Jordan Davis’ extension has shifted focus to whether the Eagles will re-sign Jalen Carter, who is eligible for a new deal. Alec Pierce’s potential free agency has drawn attention, with the Colts aiming to keep him in Indianapolis despite his market value of at least $27 million annually. The Patriots, Commanders, and Raiders are also in the mix, though Pierce’s preference to stay with the Colts could influence the outcome. Meanwhile, Romeo Doubs, who failed to re-sign with Green Bay, is expected to draw interest from the Patriots, Commanders, and 49ers.#nfl #raiders #ravens #cowboys #eagles
