Per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, writing in his Week 1 notebook for The Ringer, the Rams "strongly considered" trading for Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby before ultimately landing Garrett instead.
"Garrett wasn't the only superstar edge the Rams strongly considered acquiring in the spring," Pelissero wrote, revealing Los Angeles called Las Vegas and continued monitoring Crosby's situation throughout the process.
Why Crosby Was Available To Discuss
The Raiders had actually agreed to trade Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in March in exchange for two first-round picks, but that deal collapsed when Crosby failed his physical due to concerns about the knee he'd had repaired in January.
That failed trade sent him right back to Las Vegas, and it's what created the window for the Rams to circle in behind the scenes.
🚨🚨The #Rams have considered trying to add #Raiders Maxx Crosby this offseason and could revisit #ramshouse
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) September 9, 2026
Aaron Donald Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby would be INSANE pic.twitter.com/CC6rfK4DRO
Crosby had reportedly requested a trade following a difficult 2025 season, but multiple reports have since detailed how he, GM John Spytek, and first-year head coach Klint Kubiak found common ground once the Ravens deal fell through.
Per Pelissero, Crosby has framed the failed trade almost as fate. "Crosby took the failed trade as a sign from the universe that he was meant to be in Las Vegas, a city he never wanted to leave in the first place," Pelissero wrote.
This Isn't Necessarily Over
The door isn't fully closed for a future pairing.
Pelissero indicated Los Angeles' interest in Crosby hasn't reignited since the spring, but he expects the Raiders to field trade calls again if Las Vegas struggles and Crosby continues playing well, particularly as the November deadline approaches.
Crosby was excellent last season even with the knee injury hanging over him, posting 10 sacks, 28 tackles for loss, and 20 quarterback hits across 15 games.
🚨 Myles Garrett did not practice this morning in Australia due to a knee injury.
— Polymarket Football (@PolymarketBlitz) September 9, 2026
There’s a chance the 49ers do not see Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett. https://t.co/6rjc3e3R2v
Whether the Rams end up as the eventual suitor if that scenario plays out is unclear, with Pelissero suggesting a rival like the Cowboys could just as easily be the team calling.
