Maxx Crosby recently opened up about the tumultuous emotions he experienced during a trade ordeal with the Baltimore Ravens, which ultimately resulted in him remaining with the Las Vegas Raiders for an eighth season. The Ravens had initially agreed to trade two first-round picks for Crosby but reversed their decision due to concerns regarding his medical condition after a recent meniscus surgery that caused him to miss the final two games of the previous season.
Crosby described the entire experience as “one of the most unique, crazy, wild, up-and-down rollercoasters” he has ever faced. The situation became even more intense as he celebrated six months of sobriety, coinciding with the mounting trade rumors.
The day after the trade was agreed upon, Crosby traveled to Washington, D.C., before driving two hours to Baltimore. He expressed his disappointment by stating, “That s— was weak,” during an episode of his podcast, “The Rush.” Upon arriving in Baltimore, he noted a strange atmosphere when he did not see either general manager Eric DeCosta or head coach Jesse Minter for an extended period, which he found unusual. When he finally met Minter, he sensed something was amiss. “I dap him up, and you can just tell the energy was off … He had a blank face,” Crosby recalled.
During their meeting, Minter informed Crosby about concerns from the medical staff regarding his knee, saying, “I don”t know how to say this. One of our doctors has concerns with the results, with your knee. Some of them are concerned about the future. We really want you. We”re just gonna have to get more and more opinions.” This news left Crosby feeling “freaking out,” and shortly after, he received the call that the Ravens were backing out of the deal, which made him “f—ing livid.” He then boarded a private jet back to Las Vegas.
Despite the whirlwind of emotions, Crosby was determined to stay focused. The following morning, he woke up before 5 a.m. to hit the gym at the Raiders” facility. In a swift response to the failed trade, the Ravens quickly signed former Cincinnati Bengals star Trey Hendrickson to a four-year contract worth $112 million, with $60 million guaranteed.
After the abrupt cancellation of the trade, Crosby took to social media to share his resolve, posting, “Everything happens for a reason. Believe nothing you hear & half of what you see. I”m a Raider. I”m back. Run that s—.” Last season, Crosby had a standout performance, recording 73 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles over 15 games. His ability to generate sacks was particularly remarkable considering the Raiders often struggled, limiting his opportunities compared to players on more successful teams.
Crosby earned his fifth career Pro Bowl selection last season, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Raiders. The coverage and insights shared about his experience reflect the unpredictable nature of player trades in the NFL.
