Raiders and Maxx Crosby Rebuild 'Fractured Trust' After Trade Collapse

The Raiders and star defensive end Maxx Crosby have repaired their relationship after a failed trade to the Ravens.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:24pm

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The Raiders' offseason plans were upended when a trade sending All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens fell through after Crosby failed his physical. However, the two sides have since worked to rebuild the "fractured trust" between Crosby and the organization, according to NFL insider Albert Breer. Crosby is now expected to play the 2026 season in Las Vegas as the Raiders look to bounce back from a disappointing campaign.

Why it matters

Crosby's return is a significant development for the Raiders, who are looking to rebound after a down year. His presence on the defensive line will be crucial as the team aims to compete in the tough AFC West division. The ability to repair the relationship with Crosby also speaks to the Raiders' efforts to improve the roster and coaching staff this offseason.

The details

The trade to the Ravens fell through after Crosby failed his physical, leading to an awkward situation as he returned to the Raiders. However, the two sides have since worked to rebuild the trust, with the Raiders reaching out to Crosby and offering support after the trade collapsed. The Raiders have also made several other key offseason moves, including hiring a new head coach in Klint Kubiak and signing top free agents like linebacker Nakobe Dean, linebacker Quay Walker, and center Tyler Linderbaum.

  • In March 2026, the Raiders and Ravens agreed to a trade that would send Maxx Crosby to Baltimore.
  • Crosby failed his physical, and the trade was rescinded.
  • Last week, the Raiders and Crosby worked to repair their relationship after the failed trade.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A five-time Pro Bowl defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, hired this offseason.

Nakobe Dean

A linebacker signed by the Raiders this offseason.

Quay Walker

A linebacker signed by the Raiders this offseason.

Tyler Linderbaum

The top offensive lineman signed by the Raiders in free agency this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Some of the fractured trust between Crosby and the Raiders was rebuilt organically last week, when the team showed the five-time Pro Bowler that it had his back, in reaching out and offering any help he needed after the Ravens backed out of the trade.”

— Albert Breer, NFL Insider (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Raiders are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, hoping he can become their franchise cornerstone.

The takeaway

The Raiders' ability to repair their relationship with star defensive end Maxx Crosby after a failed trade speaks to the organization's efforts to improve the roster and coaching staff this offseason. Crosby's return is a significant boost as the team looks to bounce back and compete in the tough AFC West division.