Raiders Trade Maxx Crosby to Ravens for Two First-Round Picks: Sources
The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant move by trading star pass rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens. According to sources, the Ravens will deliver two first-round picks in this blockbuster deal.
Details of the Trade
The trade involves the Ravens sending their 2026 first-round pick, which is No. 14 overall, and another selection in 2027 to the Raiders. This agreement hinges on Crosby successfully passing a physical examination in Baltimore. The deal cannot be officially announced until the new league year commences on Wednesday.
Free Agency Context
The coming week marks the beginning of free agency, with the legal tampering period starting at noon ET on Monday. Other teams, including the Dallas Cowboys and the Jacksonville Jaguars, were reportedly interested in acquiring Crosby before the Ravens completed the transaction.
Maxx Crosby’s Background
Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowler, was drafted in the fourth round by the then-Oakland Raiders in 2019. He quickly became the face of the franchise and one of the league’s elite defensive players. However, his tenure with the Raiders soured following an injury that placed him on injured reserve in 2025.
Performance Metrics
- 69.5 sacks in seven seasons
- 133 tackles for loss
- Only one playoff appearance
Despite signing a lucrative three-year contract extension worth $106.5 million last year, Crosby’s relationship with the Raiders had deteriorated. The team finished the 2025 season with a disappointing 3-14 record, thus securing the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft.
Impact on the Ravens
The Ravens struggled to pressure quarterbacks last season, finishing with just 30 sacks. General Manager Eric DeCosta sought to rectify this by acquiring an elite pass rusher. This move indicates the Ravens’ urgent desire to rejuvenate a defense that had underperformed last season.
New Beginnings in Baltimore
Crosby, turning 29 in August, now joins a Ravens team looking to bolster their defensive capabilities. With the addition of Crosby, the Ravens can enhance their pass rush alongside a mix of young talent and veteran experience.
- Travis Jones: Team’s leading sack player with five last season
- 2025 second-round pick Mike Green: 3.5 sacks as a rookie
- Tavius Robinson: 4.5 sacks last year in ten games
- Adisa Isaac: Limited play due to injuries
As the Ravens enter the draft without a first-round pick for the first time since 2004, they will focus on addressing other areas such as the offensive and defensive lines, as well as the secondary. With this trade, the Ravens have signaled not just an immediate upgrade, but also a future-oriented strategy under new head coach Jesse Minter.
