The Ravens are taking a massive swing, reportedly trading two first-round picks to the Las Vegas Raiders for star defensive end Maxx Crosby.
Crosby, 28, is one of the best players in the NFL and instantly gives the Ravens another marquee difference-maker on defense.
A five-time Pro Bowler, Crosby has logged 69.5 sacks over the past seven seasons. He plays with a Ravens-like edge and physicality, who will instantly upgrade Baltimore's defense under new head coach and defensive play-caller Jesse Minter.
Crosby is a game-wrecker, which the Ravens saw first-hand in 2024 when he had two sacks and four tackles for loss in a Raiders win in M&T Bank Stadium.
Crosby reportedly wanted out of Las Vegas after the Raiders shut him down for the final two games. The Ravens used it as an opportunity to swoop in and get a star.
It's an aggressive move for General Manager Eric DeCosta, who treasures draft picks, and an organization that has long operated by a draft-and-develop strategy.
According to ESPN, it marks the first time in the Ravens' 31-year history that they traded a first-round pick for a player. ESPN also reported that the Dallas Cowboys were willing to give the Raiders a first- and second-round pick for Crosby.
Crosby carries a $30.7 million salary cap hit for the 2026 season and $29.7 million for 2027. He's under contract through the 2029 season, though he could work out a new deal in Baltimore.
