In a stunning twist that has NFL fans buzzing, Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby has officially joined the ownership group of English Premier League club Leeds United—creating an unexpected but explosive link to the San Francisco 49ers. This off-field bombshell could be the catalyst for one of the biggest trades in recent league history, potentially landing the elite pass rusher in the Bay Area.
Crosby, the five-time Pro Bowler and defensive powerhouse, announced his investment in Leeds United on Friday via social media. “Equity Is Everything. 🦅💎,” he posted, signaling his entry into the soccer world. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Leeds United is fully owned by 49ers Enterprises, the investment arm of the San Francisco 49ers’ ownership group. The Niners first dipped into Leeds with a minority stake back in 2018, ramping up to full control in 2023. Now, with 49ers executive Paraag Marathe serving as Leeds’ chairman, Crosby and the 49ers’ brass are essentially business partners.
This shared ownership isn’t just a fun fact—it’s fueling rampant speculation about Crosby’s NFL future. The Raiders’ relationship with their star edge rusher has reportedly soured, with tensions mounting amid a disappointing 2025 season. Meanwhile, the 49ers desperately need pass-rush reinforcements after posting a league-low 20 sacks last year. Analysts have long connected the dots, but this Leeds link adds a whole new layer of intrigue.
“Could this ownership tie smooth the path for a blockbuster trade?” one insider pondered. While the connection might not directly dictate on-field moves, it certainly opens doors for behind-the-scenes discussions. Imagine Crosby teaming up with Nick Bosa to form an unstoppable defensive front in San Francisco—talk about a game-changer!
NFL superstar @CrosbyMaxx is part of the @LUFC ownership group! pic.twitter.com/pxzIRfbQ7j
— Leeds United Americas (@luamericas) February 20, 2026
Of course, prying Crosby away from Las Vegas won’t be cheap. The Raiders reportedly want a haul similar to last year’s Micah Parsons trade, which netted the Dallas Cowboys two first-round picks and a player from Green Bay. But ESPN’s Adam Schefter tempered expectations: “Do I think they are getting two firsts and a player? No.” Instead, he suggests a first-round pick might be the floor for any deal.
As the offseason heats up, all eyes are on this transatlantic ownership web. Will it pull Crosby across the country to the Bay Area? Stay tuned—this story is far from over.
