Ravens Acquire Maxx Crosby in Blockbuster Trade with Raiders

The Baltimore Ravens have made a historic move by acquiring star defensive end Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for first-round draft picks in 2026 and 2027. According to sources, the deal is pending Crosby successfully passing a physical when the new NFL league year begins on Wednesday.

This trade represents one of the most significant transactions in Ravens franchise history. It is the first time in the team’s 31-year existence that Baltimore has used a first-round pick to acquire a veteran player via trade. The Ravens initially held the 14th overall selection in the upcoming draft but chose to part with future picks to secure one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers.

Baltimore reportedly faced competition from several teams for Crosby’s services, including the Dallas Cowboys, who were willing to offer a first-round and second-round pick. However, the Ravens ultimately presented the most compelling package.

At 28 years old, Crosby is a five-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the NFL’s most productive defensive players. Since entering the league in 2019, he has consistently ranked among the top pass rushers. Over his seven-year career, Crosby has recorded four seasons with double-digit sacks and accumulated 360 quarterback pressures—more than any other player during that span.

His arrival addresses a major weakness for Baltimore. The Ravens struggled defensively in 2025, recording only 30 sacks—their lowest total in 15 years. It was also the first time since the franchise’s inaugural 1996 season that the team did not have an edge rusher record more than 4.5 sacks.

The move signals a bold shift in strategy for the Ravens following a disappointing 8–9 campaign that resulted in them missing the playoffs and parting ways with longtime head coach John Harbaugh. Under new head coach Jesse Minter, Baltimore is seeking a defensive centerpiece capable of elevating the team back into championship contention.

Crosby now becomes the Ravens’ most accomplished pass rusher in his prime since franchise legend Terrell Suggs, the team’s all-time leader in sacks. His presence is expected to significantly strengthen a defense that already features standout linebacker Roquan Smith.

For the Raiders, the trade marks the end of an era. Crosby had been one of the franchise’s most consistent performers since being selected in the fourth round of the 2019 draft. Despite his success and leadership, the team struggled to achieve sustained winning seasons, reaching the playoffs only once during his tenure.