The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a significant decision on the future of star edge rusher Maxx Crosby after a proposed trade with the Baltimore Ravens fell through. The deal, which was expected to be a blockbuster, was derailed when Crosby failed his physical examination.
A source familiar with the situation, who spoke anonymously due to the private nature of medical results, revealed that Crosby”s health concerns stem from a surgery he underwent in January to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. This injury sidelined him for the final two games of the previous season, despite his desire to continue playing. According to his surgeon, Dr. Neal ElAttrache, Crosby is currently progressing well in his rehabilitation following the surgery.
The Ravens were evidently uneasy about Crosby”s medical status, especially given the high stakes involved, including two first-round draft picks. Consequently, they shifted their focus to acquiring four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, agreeing to a four-year, $112 million contract.
This situation serves as a reminder that deals in professional sports are not finalized until all conditions are met, including medical evaluations. The NFL has seen numerous similar situations in the past, with players backing out of agreements due to health concerns or other factors. For instance, running back Frank Gore famously agreed to a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015, only to sign with the Indianapolis Colts two days later. The Ravens have also previously voided agreements with players over medical issues.
With the Ravens retaining the 14th overall pick in the upcoming draft, they are now hopeful that Hendrickson can replicate his past performance, which was affected by injuries last season. Meanwhile, the Raiders must navigate Crosby”s future with the organization, especially as his relationship with the team appears to be strained.
Team part-owner Tom Brady may play a role in mending relations between Crosby and the Raiders. New head coach Klint Kubiak was not present during the previous season when tensions escalated, but general manager John Spytek has consistently expressed a desire to retain the talented pass rusher.
The Raiders have been active in free agency, committing significant funds to several players, including center Tyler Linderbaum and linebackers Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean. With nearly $112 million in salary cap space available, they could absorb Crosby”s cap hit. Last year, he signed a three-year extension worth $106.5 million with $91.5 million guaranteed, briefly making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
If the Raiders decide to trade Crosby, finding a suitable return could prove challenging with his medical issues now in the spotlight. They may need to consider waiting until he is further along in his recovery or explore trade conditions that could benefit both parties. Potential suitors like the Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, or Jacksonville Jaguars might emerge, but ultimately, it will depend on what the Raiders are willing to accept in return.
As the rebuilding Raiders prepare for the draft, they are expected to select Fernando Mendoza with the number one overall pick. Questions remain whether they would be stronger with Crosby on the roster in 2026 or if they would be better off without him, depending on what they could gain in a trade.
