The San Francisco 49ers' defense desperately needs to improve its pass rush in 2026. Robert Saleh's defense in 2025 was the worst at getting to the quarterback. That's not necessarily a reflection on Saleh. It's more of an indication of the players the 49ers fielded—or didn't field.
The 49ers had the fewest sacks in the NFL last season (20), and it took its toll. The secondary felt the effects of no pass rush. And the defense didn't create turnovers like they would if the pass rush was stronger. Opposing quarterbacks were able to patiently wait for receivers to get open, especially after losing edge rusher Nick Bosa.
Now, the 49ers have a new defensive coordinator in Raheem Morris. The former Atlanta Falcons head coach would surely welcome another star pass rusher. GM John Lynch knows they need to improve the pass rush. But where do you find a difference-maker in that area?
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler may have the answer. In his latest article, "Super Bowl buzz: Latest on NFL free agency, trades, coaches," Fowler lists the 49ers among teams that may be interested in calling about Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
"Edge rusher Maxx Crosby's future in Las Vegas was a hot topic this week in San Francisco," Fowler wrote. "He has been busy rehabbing his injured knee that required postseason surgery, and he plans to be ready for the early portion of the offseason program. Crosby hasn't talked to the team since the season, so there hasn't been an offseason trade request or talks of any sort. He's close with owner Mark Davis; expect Crosby, Davis, general manager John Spytek, and incoming coach Klint Kubiak to huddle up at some point.
"What has been made clear to me: Crosby wants to be a part of a winner. That's the priority. Whether and how that's conveyed is still unclear. He has been fiercely loyal to Las Vegas. That loyalty will be tested more than ever in the coming weeks. The reality is the Raiders are still far away from significant winning, and the trade interest in Crosby is incredibly robust. In fact, I believe more than a dozen teams, possibly up to 20, will at least inquire with levels of serious intent. And there are some natural would-be contenders, including the Bills, Lions, 49ers, Cowboys, and Ravens. One team that typically doesn't jump in these high-stakes waters but would be perfect to try: the Buccaneers. This is the type of move that would put Tampa Bay over the top."
To be clear, Fowler isn't reporting that the 49ers have inquired about the possibility of trading for Crosby, only that they're one of a handful of teams that could potentially show interest in the star pass rusher. The 49ers fanbase would love this move. So would the players.
Crosby has been one of the NFL's premier pass rushers since entering the league as a rookie. The 2019 AP Rookie of the Year runner-up (to Bosa) has finished the season with double-digit sacks in four of the seven seasons he's played. Crosby is a five-time Pro Bowler who could have an immediate impact on the 49ers' defense, in particular their secondary. With very little pass rush in 2025, the 49ers' defensive backfield was exposed for much of the season.
But what would the 49ers have to surrender to get Crosby? It would likely include some combination of high draft picks. The price will be steep, especially if Fowler is correct in saying that more than a dozen to possibly as many as 20 teams will be vying for his services.
The one thing that may keep the price down, though, is Crosby's health. He has finished the past two seasons on injured reserve. In 2024, it was an ankle injury, and in 2025, a knee injury. Those injuries could be a factor, but until the past two season-ending injuries, Crosby has been very durable. So, I wouldn't anticipate a huge discount.
While it's unlikely the 49ers can pull off this trade with the Raiders, the thought of having Crosby and Bosa on the same defensive line is exciting for 49ers' fans—and scary for opposing QBs.