Ravens Face Tough Choice Between Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby

Defensive stars could be key additions for Baltimore in free agency

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:36am

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The Baltimore Ravens are facing a crucial decision in free agency this offseason as they weigh whether to pursue star defensive ends Trey Hendrickson or Maxx Crosby. Both players would provide a major boost to the Ravens' pass rush, but signing one would likely mean missing out on the other.

Why it matters

The Ravens' defense has been a strength in recent years, but they struggled to consistently pressure the quarterback in 2025. Adding either Hendrickson or Crosby could transform their defense and make them a more formidable opponent in the AFC North.

The details

Hendrickson, 27, is coming off a dominant season with the New Orleans Saints, recording 15 sacks and making the Pro Bowl. Crosby, 24, has been a disruptive force for the Las Vegas Raiders, tallying 12.5 sacks in 2025. Both players are expected to command lucrative long-term deals in free agency, putting the Ravens in a difficult position as they try to balance their roster and salary cap.

  • The NFL free agency period begins on March 17, 2026.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A 27-year-old defensive end who recorded 15 sacks and made the Pro Bowl with the New Orleans Saints in 2025.

Maxx Crosby

A 24-year-old defensive end who had 12.5 sacks for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025, emerging as one of the league's top young pass rushers.

Baltimore Ravens

An NFL team based in Baltimore, Maryland that has been one of the league's top defensive teams in recent years.

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What they’re saying

“Hendrickson or Crosby would be a game-changer for our defense. We have to weigh the pros and cons of each player and make the best decision for the long-term future of this team.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, Baltimore Ravens (Lancaster Online)

What’s next

The Ravens will need to make a decision on whether to pursue Hendrickson or Crosby before the start of free agency on March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The Ravens' choice between Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby will be a defining moment of their offseason, as they look to bolster their defense and remain a contender in the AFC North.