Cowboys Remain Interested in Maxx Crosby Trade After Ravens Backed Out

Dallas proposed multiple deals to acquire the Raiders' star pass rusher, but the Lions have reportedly dropped out of the race.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:06am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the explosive power and movement of a defensive lineman rushing the quarterback.The Cowboys' relentless pursuit of Maxx Crosby reflects their determination to bolster their defense with one of the league's most dominant pass rushers.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys have maintained their interest in trading for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, even after the Baltimore Ravens backed out of a deal to acquire him. According to reports, the Cowboys proposed multiple trade offers to the Raiders, including their first-round pick at No. 12 and a second-round selection. However, the Detroit Lions have reportedly withdrawn from the Crosby sweepstakes, stating they were never seriously pursuing the star pass rusher.

Why it matters

Crosby is one of the top defensive players in the NFL, and acquiring him would be a major boost for the Cowboys' defense. The team has been actively pursuing a trade, indicating they view Crosby as a key piece to improve their roster and compete for a Super Bowl. The fact that the Ravens backed out due to medical concerns raises questions about Crosby's long-term health, but the Cowboys appear undeterred in their pursuit.

The details

The Cowboys' trade offers for Crosby have escalated, starting with their second first-round pick at No. 20 and defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, and eventually reaching their top first-round selection at No. 12 and a second-round pick. However, the Raiders have not accepted any of these proposals so far. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions have stated they were never seriously interested in trading for Crosby, citing concerns about their salary cap and roster management.

  • On March 24, ESPN's Ryan McFadden reported the details of the Cowboys' trade offers to the Raiders.
  • On March 30, Detroit Lions president Ron Wood told the Detroit Free Press that the team was never in the race for Crosby.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason.

Jerry Jones

The owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, who has been actively pursuing a trade for Crosby.

Osa Odighizuwa

A defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys who was included in the team's initial trade offers for Crosby.

Ron Wood

The president of the Detroit Lions, who stated the team was never seriously interested in trading for Crosby.

Dr. Daniel Cooper

The head physician for the Dallas Cowboys who was involved in reviewing Crosby's medical records, which led to the Ravens backing out of a trade for the pass rusher.

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What they’re saying

“'Initial offers centered on Dallas' second first-round pick at No. 20, and defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. The Cowboys then offered their top first-rounder at No. 12 and a third-round pick.'”

— Ryan McFadden, ESPN reporter

“'When we're looking at our cash and cap budget, we're looking at it as is and as it will be with those guys knowing that we want to keep many of them, all of them if we can.'”

— Ron Wood, Detroit Lions president

“'Cooper is the Cowboys team doctor and is a premiere knee specialist. As stated by Shan below, Schefter in the clip says 'Cooper was one of the doctors who reviewed the images and the Ravens then felt compelled to back out of this trade.' He has taken on quite a number of tricky knee cases. Possibly explains the Cowboys being out early. Genuinely thought they would re-approach.'”

— Jane Slater, NFL Network reporter

What’s next

The Cowboys will likely continue to negotiate with the Raiders in an effort to acquire Maxx Crosby, potentially increasing their trade offer further. The outcome of these negotiations will determine if Crosby ends up in Dallas or remains with the Raiders.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' persistent pursuit of Maxx Crosby highlights their desire to bolster their defense with one of the NFL's premier pass rushers. While the Ravens' medical concerns raised questions, the Cowboys appear undeterred, suggesting they believe Crosby can be a game-changing addition to their roster as they aim to compete for a Super Bowl title.