The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly pulled off one of the biggest trades of the NFL offseason. According to reports, the Baltimore Ravens are finalizing a blockbuster deal with the Las Vegas Raiders to acquire star EDGE rusher Maxx Crosby.
In the reported trade, Baltimore will send the 14th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a 2027 first-round pick to Las Vegas. The move instantly reshapes both teams and gives the Ravens one of the league’s most feared pass rushers.
Below is a breakdown of the biggest winners and losers from the Crosby deal.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens
The biggest winners in the deal are clearly the Baltimore Ravens.
Baltimore had a major need at pass rusher after trading Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers at the trade deadline. Adding Crosby gives the Ravens an elite defender who can change games.
During the 2025–26 NFL season, Crosby recorded:
- 10 sacks
- 1 interception
- Multiple quarterback pressures
- Missed only two games
Crosby now becomes the centerpiece of a defense for a team that already has Super Bowl aspirations.
Winner: Maxx Crosby
The trade is also a huge win for Maxx Crosby.
Moving from the Raiders to the Ravens puts Crosby on a team that is much closer to competing for a championship. Baltimore has consistently been a playoff contender and boasts a strong defensive culture.
Playing on a winning team could also elevate Crosby’s national profile and potentially boost his chances for future Defensive Player of the Year consideration.
Loser: Las Vegas Raiders Defense
The biggest loser from a roster standpoint is the Las Vegas Raiders defense.
Crosby was the heart and soul of the defensive unit for several seasons. His relentless motor, leadership, and ability to pressure quarterbacks made him one of the most valuable defenders in the league.
Replacing that production will be extremely difficult.
Even with new draft capital, the Raiders may struggle to match Crosby’s impact in the short term.
Winner: Ravens Head Coach Jesse Minter
Jesse Minter, head coach of the Ravens, also benefits greatly from the deal.
As the team’s defensive play-caller, Minter now gains a premier edge rusher capable of consistently disrupting opposing offenses.
With Crosby in the lineup, Minter can:
- Dial up more aggressive blitz packages
- Create favorable one-on-one matchups
- Increase overall defensive pressure
This move gives Baltimore far more flexibility in its defensive schemes.
Loser: Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys reportedly pursued Crosby but ultimately missed out.
Dallas was rumored to be interested but was unwilling to match Baltimore’s offer of two first-round picks.
Elite pass rushers like Crosby rarely become available, so missing out could sting if Baltimore’s defense becomes dominant with him.
Winner: Raiders Front Office
Even though the Raiders lose a star player, the team’s front office still deserves credit for the return.
Las Vegas receives:
- 2026 first-round pick (No. 14 overall)
- 2027 first-round pick
That draft capital gives the organization flexibility to rebuild or strengthen other areas of the roster.
The picks could help the Raiders:
- Draft a new defensive star
- Build around quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza
- Add multiple impact players through trades or selections
Trade Summary
| Team | Receives | Gives Up |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Ravens | Maxx Crosby | 2026 1st-round pick (No. 14), 2027 1st-round pick |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Two first-round picks | Maxx Crosby |
