Ravens GM Discusses Maxx Crosby Trade Decision

Eric DeCosta says they couldn't complete the process to acquire the star defensive end.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:45am

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Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta discussed the team's failed attempt to trade for star defensive end Maxx Crosby. DeCosta said they were excited about the prospect of adding Crosby but couldn't complete the trade process, citing a 'tough call' that was ultimately the right decision. DeCosta acknowledged fans' disappointment but reiterated that the Crosby trade was separate from their signing of Trey Hendrickson on the same day.

Why it matters

The Ravens were widely reported to have agreed to a trade for Crosby, a dominant pass rusher, which would have significantly bolstered their defense. The failed trade attempt has left fans frustrated, raising questions about the team's offseason plans and their ability to land top-tier talent.

The details

DeCosta said the Crosby trade discussions were part of the 'normal trade process' and that there were 'a lot of different parts' involved. He acknowledged the emotional attachment to acquiring a player he 'really admires' but said the ultimate decision was a 'tough call' that they believe was the right one. The trade was reportedly called off due to a medical issue related to Crosby's knee injury from last season.

  • On March 10, ESPN reported the Ravens had agreed to a trade for Maxx Crosby.
  • On March 12, the Ravens announced they could not complete the trade process.

The players

Eric DeCosta

The general manager of the Baltimore Ravens.

Maxx Crosby

A star defensive end who was the subject of the failed trade attempt by the Ravens.

Trey Hendrickson

A defensive end who the Ravens signed on the same day the Crosby trade fell through.

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What they’re saying

“We were really thinking we were getting some traction. We did. As part of the normal trade process, there's a lot of different parts to the trade process.”

— Eric DeCosta, Ravens General Manager (wbal.com)

“I know our fans are upset, devastated. I understand that.”

— Eric DeCosta, Ravens General Manager (wbal.com)

“It was tough. A guy I really admire as a player… a guy that plays like a Raven. It's challenging. You get emotionally attached.”

— Eric DeCosta, Ravens General Manager (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Ravens will retain the two first-round picks they had reportedly agreed to trade for Crosby, and they will move forward with their current roster, including the recently signed Trey Hendrickson.

The takeaway

This failed trade attempt highlights the complexities and uncertainties involved in the NFL's offseason player movement process, even for a team like the Ravens that is typically adept at making impactful roster moves. The inability to complete the Crosby trade has left fans frustrated, but the team's focus now shifts to building around their existing players and preparing for the upcoming season.