10 Worst NFL Contracts Heading into the 2026 Season: The Raiders’ Xavier Jones
Bleacher Report identified Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby’s contract as one of the NFL’s worst ahead of the 2026 season, according to a June 13, 2026, report from the Raiders-focused blog Silver And Black Pride. The assessment highlights concerns over the terms of Crosby’s deal, which has drawn scrutiny from analysts and fans.
Crosby, a Pro Bowl performer in 2025, signed a five-year, $75 million contract with the Raiders in 2023, including $30 million in guaranteed money. The agreement included a $15 million signing bonus and an average annual salary of $15 million. Bleacher Report’s analysis, published on June 12, 2026, argues that the contract’s structure—particularly its high guaranteed money and potential for future cap implications—makes it a risk for the team as they navigate roster-building challenges.
The report notes that Crosby’s contract ranks among the NFL’s worst due to its financial burden relative to his projected performance. Analysts have questioned whether the deal adequately balances his production with the team’s long-term flexibility. The Raiders, who finished 8-9 in 2025, face pressure to contend in 2026, raising questions about how Crosby’s contract might limit their ability to address other positional needs.
Silver And Black Pride, the source of the report, cited Bleacher Report’s criteria for evaluating contracts, which include factors such as guaranteed money, average annual value, and alignment with player performance. The blog’s coverage emphasizes that Crosby’s deal is one of several high-profile contracts under review by the NFL’s analytics community.
Raiders general manager Dave Ziegler has not publicly addressed the criticism, but the team’s 2026 draft strategy and free-agent plans could reflect efforts to mitigate the financial impact of Crosby’s contract. The Raiders currently hold $12.4 million in cap space, according to NFL Media, but projections suggest the team may face increased pressure in 2027 due to the contract’s structure.
Comparisons to other NFL contracts highlight the unique challenges of Crosby’s deal. For example, Dallas Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons’ 2023 contract, which included $62 million over five years, has been praised for its balance of guaranteed money and performance incentives. In contrast, Crosby’s agreement lacks similar incentives, according to Bleacher Report’s analysis.
The evaluation also underscores broader concerns about the Raiders’ approach to high-value contracts. In 2024, the team restructured quarterback Derek Carr’s deal to free up cap space, a move that drew mixed reactions. Crosby’s contract, which was signed under former general manager Tom Telesco, remains a focal point as the organization seeks to rebuild under Ziegler.
Fans and analysts have debated the long-term implications of Crosby’s contract. Some argue that his ability to generate sacks and pressure quarterbacks justifies the investment, while others contend that the deal limits the team’s flexibility. The Raiders’ 2026 season will provide clarity on whether the contract proves to be a strategic asset or a financial liability.