Ravens Acquire Raiders Star Maxx Crosby in Blockbuster Trade

Baltimore sends two first-round picks to Las Vegas for elite pass rusher

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly agreed to a blockbuster trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, acquiring star defensive end Maxx Crosby in exchange for two first-round draft picks. The move signals the Ravens' intent to contend for a Super Bowl championship, as they look to bolster their defense around star quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Why it matters

The trade represents a significant shift for both franchises. For the Ravens, it's an aggressive move to capitalize on Lamar Jackson's prime and elevate their defense to championship-caliber levels. For the rebuilding Raiders, the trade could signal a new direction as they look to stockpile draft capital and develop younger talent.

The details

Crosby, 28, is considered one of the NFL's elite pass rushers. He has been a standout for the Raiders since being drafted in the fourth round in 2019, making the Pro Bowl in 2021. The Ravens will acquire Crosby, who is under contract through 2029, in exchange for two first-round picks.

  • The trade is expected to be finalized on Wednesday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A 28-year-old defensive end who has been a standout for the Las Vegas Raiders since being drafted in 2019, making the Pro Bowl in 2021.

Lamar Jackson

The star quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens, who has led the team to consistent playoff appearances since being drafted in 2018.

Baltimore Ravens

An NFL franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland, that has been a consistent playoff contender in recent years but has yet to win a Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson at the helm.

Las Vegas Raiders

An NFL franchise that has made only one playoff appearance during Maxx Crosby's seven seasons with the team, losing in the Wild-Card round in 2021.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going there with one purpose, and that's to help this team get to where ultimately it needs to be and where everybody wants to go. And that's winning a Super Bowl.”

— Maxx Crosby

“For the time being, it's a new day. I'm going to Baltimore. Flock Nation. Everybody in the whole city of Baltimore, I've got a lot to learn. No words are needed; I'm going to show by action.”

— Maxx Crosby

What’s next

The trade is expected to be finalized on Wednesday, March 8, 2026, at which point Crosby will officially join the Ravens and begin integrating into their defense.

The takeaway

This blockbuster trade signals the Ravens' aggressive pursuit of a Super Bowl championship, as they look to capitalize on Lamar Jackson's prime and bolster their defense with one of the NFL's elite pass rushers. For the rebuilding Raiders, the deal represents an opportunity to stockpile draft capital and chart a new course for the franchise.