Ravens Acquire Star Defensive End, Bengals Fans Await Offseason Moves

Baltimore trades two first-round picks for Maxx Crosby, while Cincinnati's offseason plans remain unclear.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens have traded two first-round picks to acquire five-time Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby, a move that has left Cincinnati Bengals fans frustrated. The Bengals have said they are "all in" this offseason, but their offseason plans have been more modest compared to the aggressive moves made by their AFC North rivals.

Why it matters

The addition of Crosby to the Ravens' defense makes them an even tougher opponent for the Bengals, who are looking to defend their AFC North title. The Bengals' approach to the offseason has raised concerns among fans that the team may not be doing enough to capitalize on their championship window with star quarterback Joe Burrow.

The details

The Ravens sent their 2023 first-round pick and their 2027 first-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for Crosby, one of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL. This move comes as the Bengals' offseason has been relatively quiet, with the team letting their best edge rusher, Trey Hendrickson, hit free agency without a replacement.

  • The NFL's legal tampering period begins on March 13, 2026 at 12:00 PM.
  • The Bengals are expected to make moves during the offseason to improve their roster.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A five-time Pro Bowl defensive end who was traded from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round picks.

Joe Burrow

The star quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals, who is looking to lead his team to another successful season and potential championship.

Ja'Marr Chase

A wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, who has expressed a desire to see the team add more defensive talent to help the offense.

Tee Higgins

A wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, who has also expressed a desire to see the team add more defensive talent.

Zac Taylor

The head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals, who has talked about the importance of adaptability and evolving in the NFL.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Bengals will need to make key roster moves during the upcoming free agency period to bolster their defense and keep pace with their AFC North rivals.

The takeaway

The Bengals' approach to the offseason has raised concerns among fans that the team may not be doing enough to capitalize on their championship window with star quarterback Joe Burrow. The aggressive moves made by the Ravens highlight the difference in mindset between the two franchises as they chase a Super Bowl title.