HENDERSON, Nev. — The blockbuster trade that would have sent Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens is officially dead. After Baltimore’s medical staff flagged concerns during a physical earlier this month, the three-time Pro Bowler is back in Las Vegas. Raiders General Manager John Spytek broke his silence on the situation Thursday, making it clear that the organization is ready to move forward with their defensive cornerstone.
The deal was set to be a franchise-altering move for both sides. Baltimore was prepared to ship two first-round picks to the Raiders in exchange for the 28-year-old edge rusher. However, the Ravens blinked after reviewing the long-term prognosis of Crosby’s knee. Crosby underwent surgery to repair a meniscus in January, and while his camp insists he is ahead of schedule, Baltimore wasn’t willing to gamble two premium assets on his durability.
Despite the failed transaction, Crosby hasn’t missed a beat. He was back at the Raiders’ facility the morning after returning from Baltimore, attacking his rehab with the same intensity that led to 10.0 sacks and 73 combined tackles during the 2025 season. The Raiders finished a disappointing 3-14 last year, but Crosby remained a rare bright spot, recording his first career interception and forcing two fumbles while playing through significant pain.
“Things have a way of working out the way they’re supposed to. We welcome him like he never left — because he really never did. My relationship with Maxx since I’ve gotten here has been great.”
— John Spytek, Raiders General Manager
Spytek’s comments suggest the bridge hasn’t been burned, even after the Raiders were reportedly “frustrated” with how Baltimore handled the medical disclosure. With Las Vegas holding the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, keeping an elite veteran like Crosby provides a veteran presence for a roster likely to be led by a rookie quarterback. Rumors heavily tie the Raiders to Indiana standout Fernando Mendoza to solve their long-standing vacancy under center.
The Raiders have been aggressive in free agency to support this transition, already landing center Tyler Linderbaum and linebackers Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker. Keeping Crosby on the edge ensures that while the offense finds its footing, the defense retains its heartbeat. For now, the “Mad Maxx” era in Las Vegas continues, with the star defender expected to be “ready to rock” by the start of training camp in August.
