The San Francisco 49ers closed the book on a season that defied simple narratives.
They won 12 games while absorbing injuries that would have derailed most contenders. They made the playoffs despite losing key pieces across the roster. And when their season ended in a lopsided exit against the Seattle Seahawks, the front office inherited a familiar challenge.
The championship window has not closed. But the margins have thinned.
That reality shapes how San Francisco approaches this offseason. What comes next is a choice about how aggressive the front office wants to be in pursuit of the one prize that has remained out of reach.
That is why one particular trade suggestion continues to gain traction.
The Trade To Bolster The 49ers Defense
Tim Kawakami recently floated the idea of San Francisco pursuing Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby, noting that the longtime 49ers target “seems to be on his way out in Las Vegas” and has long been one of the 49ers’ favorite players.
The connection between San Francisco and Crosby is not new.
The 49ers have been linked to him multiple times, including last offseason. What has changed is the context. The Raiders appear to be entering a full rebuild after another disappointing season. Crosby is under contract through 2026 and represents significant trade value for a franchise that may need to accumulate assets.
GettyLas Vegas Raiders DE Maxx Crosby.
Why Maxx Crosby Makes Sense for the 49ers
On the field, the fit is obvious.
Pairing Crosby with Nick Bosa would give the 49ers two elite edge rushers capable of wrecking games. Opposing offenses would have no easy answers. That combination would make life easier for Fred Warner and the rest of the defense.
Crosby has been one of the NFL’s most consistently disruptive edge rushers since entering the league.
He has recorded double-digit sacks in three of the past four seasons, playing through injuries and roster instability in Las Vegas. His motor does not quit. His ability to affect the game extends beyond the stat sheet.
Tim Kawakami on the 49ers possibly trading for Maxx Crosby this offseason:
“Maxx Crosby has got to be right in their sights. I think they can get him. They’ve thought about him for a long time. They’ve admired him for a long time. He’s the perfect bookend with Nick Bosa. I think… pic.twitter.com/qMIIcEyThR
— Coach Yac
(@Coach_Yac) January 22, 2026
Why San Francisco Might Hesitate
The 49ers should have the flexibility to make a deal for Crosby work. The question is whether the cost justifies the gain.
San Francisco already employs one of the league’s elite edge rushers in Bosa. Adding another would create a formidable tandem, but it would also concentrate resources in one position group. That limits flexibility elsewhere, particularly on offense.
The broader consideration is whether edge rusher represents the biggest offseason priority. The offense showed more obvious gaps when the margins tightened in critical moments. Wide receiver, in particular, could use an upgrade.
That does not mean Crosby would not help. It means the 49ers have to weigh the opportunity cost carefully.
Nick Wagoner believes the 49ers will go “big game hunting” at WR this offseason.
Wagoner lists Justin Jefferson as a player they could target in a trade if he becomes available.
Wagoner on AJ Brown:
“AJ Brown is a guy who I think will be available. He’s someone I could see as… pic.twitter.com/rz1zDtQEl4
— Coach Yac
The Verdict for the 49ers
The 49ers are not desperate.
They won 12 games this season despite absorbing injuries that would have derailed most contenders. The championship window has not closed. But the margins have thinned, and the front office knows it needs to make smart decisions this offseason.
Crosby represents a clear upgrade in talent and depth.
If the Raiders make him available and the price aligns with San Francisco’s valuation, the 49ers should explore it. If the cost exceeds the benefit, they move on.
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