The San Francisco 49ers could certainly use another proven pass rusher after finishing with an NFL-low 20 sacks last season. That has fueled plenty of speculation about the future of Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby.
Although there is no indication that the Raiders are actively shopping Crosby, rumors have persisted after an offseason deal with the Baltimore Ravens fell through. As a result, many have continued to speculate about potential landing spots, with the 49ers frequently mentioned as a possibility.
One young 49ers fan recently met Crosby during a meet-and-greet and seized the opportunity to make her recruiting pitch.
“I literally made a post about you, like a couple of weeks ago,” the fan told Crosby. “So, I gotta ask for The Faithful, will you please join the 49ers?”
Crosby couldn’t help but laugh before offering a response.
“I can’t,” Crosby replied. “I can’t. Hey, I still appreciate you doing your homework, though. You never know. You’re the best, though.”
The lighthearted exchange quickly made the rounds on social media, giving 49ers fans another reason to dream about adding one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers.
For now, however, San Francisco appears focused on its current roster. Nick Bosa and rookie Mykel Williams are both working their way back from ACL injuries, while the 49ers invested in their defensive front by selecting Romello Height in the third round of the NFL Draft and acquiring veteran defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa via trade.
If the 49ers emerge as contenders early in the season and the Raiders struggle, trade speculation surrounding Crosby is likely to intensify. Until then, his response to one hopeful young fan will help keep the rumors alive.