Las Vegas Raiders Defensive End Maxx Crosby Supports Antonio Pierce for Head Coach, Threatens Trade Request if Not Hired
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby has expressed his strong support for interim coach Antonio Pierce to be hired as the team’s full-time head coach. In the event that Pierce is not hired, Crosby has indicated that he may request a trade from the Raiders. A league source with direct knowledge of Crosby’s thinking confirmed that all options are on the table.
The news of Crosby’s potential trade request was first reported by NFL Network. Pierce took over as interim coach after the firing of Josh McDaniels and led the team to a 5-4 record. The players, including Crosby, have been vocal in their support of Pierce and interim general manager Champ Kelly. Kelly is also being considered for a permanent position with the team.
Crosby, along with wide receiver Davante Adams and running back Josh Jacobs, has been one of Pierce’s most ardent supporters. Following the Raiders’ victory over the Denver Broncos in their season finale, Crosby expressed his belief that Pierce should become the franchise’s next head coach.
The defensive end’s message to owner Mark Davis was clear: Crosby and the majority of the locker room believe in Pierce’s abilities and are tired of constant coaching changes. Jacobs, who is set to become a free agent, initially planned to leave the Raiders but changed his mind when Pierce became interim coach.
Pierce may not have led the team to the playoffs, but his efforts to rejuvenate the locker room, empower assistant coaches, and strengthen team culture have resonated with the players. They believe in the progress made under his leadership and hope he and Kelly are given more time to build on the foundation they’ve established.
Davis himself has been impressed with Pierce and Kelly and expressed his desire to retain them. However, NFL rules require the Raiders to conduct a full GM and head coach search. While Kelly is the favorite for the GM position, the team has yet to interview external head coaching candidates as they want to hire a GM first.
If the Raiders ultimately decide not to hire Pierce and Crosby follows through with his trade request, there is no guarantee that the team will comply. The Raiders consider Crosby an untouchable player due to his talent as a two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowl selection. Additionally, Crosby’s leadership and charitable work in the Las Vegas community make him invaluable off the field.
Trading Crosby would free up approximately $9.1 million in cap space but result in a dead-money hit of over $15.3 million. Given these factors, it is unlikely that the Raiders would trade Crosby. However, if they were to explore their options, Crosby would undoubtedly attract significant offers from numerous teams.
In conclusion, Maxx Crosby’s support for Antonio Pierce as the Raiders’ head coach is unwavering. If Pierce is not hired, Crosby may request a trade, although it is unlikely that the Raiders would agree to it. The team values Crosby’s contributions both on and off the field and considers him an integral part of their future success.