LAS VEGAS — Maxx Crosby is back with the Las Vegas Raiders. But the story is far from over. After a blockbuster trade to the Baltimore Ravens collapsed due to concerns over Crosby’s knee, the All-Pro edge rusher finds himself once again at the center of one of the NFL’s most complicated offseason sagas. The Raiders had agreed in principle to send Crosby to the Ravens in exchange for two first-round picks a massive return that reflected his elite value.
Then, everything changed. Baltimore backed out after a physical raised long-term concerns about Crosby’s knee, reportedly tied to a “degenerative” issue following offseason meniscus surgery.
The result:
- Deal collapsed
- Crosby returned to Las Vegas
- League-wide scrutiny followed
While Baltimore ultimately won the initial bidding war, the Dallas Cowboys were heavily involved throughout negotiations.
Their offers reportedly included:
- DT Osa Odighizuwa + No. 20 overall pick
- Upgraded to No. 12 overall pick + third-rounder
- Final offer: No. 12 + second-round compensation
Still, none of those matched Baltimore’s two first-round picks making the Raiders’ original decision easy.
Now, however, everything has changed. With the Ravens backing out, Crosby’s trade market has shifted dramatically. Reality check:
- Teams now have medical concerns on record
- Raiders likely won’t get two first-round picks anymore
- Interested teams including Dallas are hesitant
Even though Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hasn’t fully closed the door, momentum around a deal has cooled significantly.
League Skepticism Around Ravens’ Decision
Not everyone is buying Baltimore’s explanation.
Multiple executives reportedly believe:
- The Ravens already understood Crosby’s injury timeline
- The physical may not have been the only reason
- A pivot toward signing Trey Hendrickson influenced the decision
In other words: Some around the league think Baltimore got cold feet.
Raiders Regroup and Recommit
Despite the chaos, Crosby has publicly and privately re-embraced his place in Las Vegas. He returned to the facility immediately after the failed deal and appreciated outreach from leadership, including GM John Spytek and head coach Klint Kubiak. For now, both sides appear aligned.
A Loaded EDGE Room Emerges
Ironically, the failed trade may benefit the Raiders on the field.
Las Vegas has already added:
- Kwity Paye
- Malcolm Koonce
- Tyree Wilson
That creates one of the deepest EDGE rotations the Raiders have had in years. For a team that has struggled to find help alongside Crosby, this could be a rare strength.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
