analyzing the prospects of maxx crosby of the raiders, micah parsons of the cowboys, and other pass rushers in the possibly exciting 2025 offseason
as the 2025 nfl offseason approaches, the market for elite pass rushers is shaping up to be one of the most compelling storylines. with several top-tier edge rushers potentially available for new contracts, trades, or extensions, the landscape of defensive play in the league could see significant shifts. among the most intriguing names in the mix are maxx crosby of the las vegas raiders and micah parsons of the dallas cowboys. both are among the league’s premier defensive playmakers, and their futures could have major implications for their respective teams and the nfl as a whole.
maxx crosby: cornerstone of the raiders’ defense
maxx crosby has been the heart and soul of the las vegas raiders’ defense for the past few seasons. known for his relentless motor, elite pass-rushing skills, and leadership, crosby has consistently been among the league’s sack leaders. in 2024, he further cemented his status as one of the nfl’s best, recording double-digit sacks and numerous tackles for loss.
however, with the raiders potentially entering a transition phase, questions about crosby’s long-term future remain. while he is under contract through 2026, trade speculation has swirled as las vegas evaluates its roster construction. if the raiders decide to retool, contenders in need of a dominant edge presence could come calling. teams like the baltimore ravens, new york jets, or even the detroit lions might be willing to offer a substantial package to acquire his services. on the other hand, if the raiders double down on crosby as their defensive cornerstone, an extension or contract restructure could be on the horizon to free up cap space for further reinforcements.
micah parsons: the cowboys’ defensive superstar
micah parsons has been nothing short of a game-changer since entering the nfl. the cowboys’ star defender has displayed an unparalleled combination of speed, power, and versatility, making him a nightmare for opposing offenses. his ability to line up as both an edge rusher and an off-ball linebacker gives dallas a unique defensive weapon.
parsons is eligible for a lucrative contract extension, and with the market for elite pass rushers continually rising, his deal could reset the standard for defensive players. dallas will need to navigate salary cap constraints carefully, especially with other key players such as ceedee lamb and dak prescott also eyeing potential extensions. a record-breaking deal in the range of $30 million per year is not out of the question for parsons, as the cowboys will likely prioritize keeping their defensive superstar long-term.
other key pass rushers to watch
besides crosby and parsons, the 2025 offseason could see movement among other impactful pass rushers:
- brian burns (carolina panthers): having already been involved in trade discussions in the past, burns could once again be a hot commodity if carolina decides to go in a different direction.
- josh allen (jacksonville jaguars): the jaguars secured allen on a short-term deal in 2024, but his long-term future remains uncertain. if he hits free agency, he will be one of the top targets.
- montez sweat (chicago bears): after being traded to chicago in 2023, sweat has been a force off the edge. the bears may look to lock him up long-term, but other teams will be watching closely.
- danielle hunter (houston texans): hunter has shown he still has plenty left in the tank. depending on houston’s direction, he could hit the market or secure another high-value contract.
conclusion
the 2025 offseason is shaping up to be a defining period for pass rushers across the league. whether it’s maxx crosby’s future with the raiders, micah parsons’ potential record-breaking extension, or other high-profile edge rushers exploring new opportunities, the defensive landscape could see major shifts. teams in need of a dominant pass rusher will have plenty of options, and the moves made in the coming months could reshape the balance of power in the nfl.
