One of the most significant moves of the NFL offseason was the trade sending All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks. The move was expected to reshape the NFL landscape and vault the Ravens into contention.
However, Crosby failed his physical, and the trade was rescinded, leaving an awkward situation as he returned to Las Vegas despite having already released a statement thanking the franchise and fans for his time there.
NFL Analyst Confirms Las Vegas Raiders and Maxx Crosby Have Started to Repair Relationship
A primary reason Crosby was traded was a disagreement with the front office at the end of last season. The Raiders told Crosby they wanted to shut him down late in the year, but he refused. It now appears the two sides have repaired their relationship and are prepared to move forward together.
The Raiders are coming off a disappointing season, and they have made substantial efforts this offseason to improve. They began by hiring new head coach Klint Kubiak and then used much of their cap space to strengthen the roster. Crosby’s return is a significant development for the Raiders and was unexpected.
According to Albert Breer, “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.”
“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.”
SI NFL insider Albert Breer wrote the… pic.twitter.com/D3Yu8XD3kO
— Nick Walters (@nickwalt) March 16, 2026
What once seemed irreparable between Crosby and the Raiders now appears resolved. He is expected to play the 2026 season in Las Vegas, and his presence on their revamped defense will be critical.
Among the players the Raiders added this offseason were linebackers Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker. They also signed the top offensive lineman on the market, center Tyler Linderbaum. In addition, they acquired Kwity Paye to play opposite Crosby on the defensive front.
Although the Raiders compete in one of the toughest divisions in football, they should be considerably more competitive in 2026. With the first overall pick, they are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who they hope can become their franchise cornerstone. With improved quarterback play and a stronger coaching staff, the Raiders anticipate a more successful season in 2026.
