Raiders' Maxx Crosby Speaks Out on Failed Ravens Trade

Defensive end details whirlwind process that led to deal's collapse due to failed physical

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:20pm

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Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby is still baffled by how his proposed trade to the Baltimore Ravens fell through after he failed a physical due to a meniscus issue. Crosby detailed the confusing process on his podcast, describing how the Ravens medical staff took an unusually long time examining him and then informed him they wanted to get "more opinions" on his knee, leaving him "terrified." The trade was ultimately nixed, but Crosby says he's happy to remain a Raider and is "crushing" his rehab to prove his knee is in excellent condition.

Why it matters

This story provides insight into the high-stakes world of NFL trades and the importance of players passing rigorous medical exams. Crosby's experience highlights the potential pitfalls teams face when acquiring players with injury histories, as well as the personal toll it can take on the athletes involved.

The details

Crosby first answered questions about his injury history with the Ravens medical staff and then underwent X-rays and an MRI. He found it odd that they took much longer than expected. After his exam, Crosby waited five hours before the Ravens GM told him the team wanted to get "more opinions" on his knee, which left the pass-rusher alarmed. Crosby underwent surgery on his left knee in January, and his surgeon has said there were no complications and that he's "ahead of schedule" in the recovery process. However, the Ravens clearly didn't agree with that assessment.

  • Crosby underwent surgery on his left knee in January 2026.
  • The proposed trade between the Raiders and Ravens occurred in March 2026.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who was the subject of a proposed trade to the Baltimore Ravens that fell through after he failed a physical exam.

Jesse Minter

The head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.

Eric DeCosta

The general manager of the Baltimore Ravens.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache

The surgeon who performed Crosby's knee surgery in January 2026 and said there were no complications and that Crosby was "ahead of schedule" in his recovery.

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What they’re saying

“I was terrified, because I'm thinking in my head, like, what the f--k? Is there something wrong? Like, I'm freaking out. Like low key and deep down, I'm like I can't get another surgery. ... What is going on, bro?”

— Maxx Crosby, Raiders Defensive End

What’s next

Crosby says he is "crushing" his rehab and is in position for another stellar season, putting him on track to prove to the Ravens and the rest of the NFL that his knee is in excellent physical condition.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the high-stakes nature of NFL trades and the importance of players passing rigorous medical exams. Crosby's experience shows the personal toll these situations can take on athletes, but also his determination to bounce back and prove his worth to the Raiders and the league.