Ravens' franchise-altering solution to a fatal flaw just landed on their radar

The Baltimore Ravens were a complete disaster in 2025. Despite possessing one of the best teams from top to bottom on paper, the offense and defense were rather dysfunctional. Each unit had some bright moments throughout the year, but for the most part, they were incredibly inconsistent.

Two of the biggest questions haunting the Ravens entering the campaign surrounded the interior offensive line and pass rush. The offensive guards were unproven, and the defensive front lacked consistency getting to the quarterback, but many thought they could improve there and overcome those potential problems. That was far from the case; in fact, they were the fatal flaws that led to Baltimore’s underwhelming season.

In terms of Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr’s pass rush unit, they have a hand in countless losses. It was especially evident in blown leads, which Baltimore became known for in 2025. They could not close out games, and the inability to be aggressive and get to opposing quarterbacks let teams back into games time and time again.

You cannot win the Super Bowl if you do not have an elite defensive front. Looking toward the 2026 free agency, there are not many names that could significantly boost the Ravens’ defensive front. However, one option may have just unveiled himself: Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby.

Maxx Crosby could take the Ravens to the next level

On Friday, it was reported that Crosby will not be playing in Las Vegas’ final two games due to a knee injury. The 28-year-old has been playing through that injury and was upset with the decision.

Given where the Raiders sit in the landscape of the NFL, a trade could be possible. They sit at 2-13, and could be picking first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. If Crosby’s disagreement stems further into the offseason, Baltimore General Manager Eric DeCosta must make relentless efforts to land the five-time Pro Bowler.

The Ravens’ defense has totaled just 26 sacks, which is tied with the Arizona Cardinals for 27th in the league. Rookie outside linebacker Mike Green is emerging down the stretch, and while fellow outside linebacker Dre’Mont Jones helps form a decent duo, the unit lacks a superstar at that key position. Crosby needs to be that guy.

In terms of trade value, Crosby likely demands slightly less than what the Green Bay Packers gave up for Micah Parsons. The Packers dealt first-round picks in 2026 and 2027, and veteran defensive end Kenny Clark to the Dallas Cowboys. For the Raiders to entertain the offer, DeCosta will have to part with some serious draft capital, likely including the team’s 2026 first-round pick and multiple day-two picks.

Crosby’s contract is also tradeable from the Raiders’ perspective. They would assume $5.1 million in dead cap in 2026 with a trade this offseason, but would save $30.7 million.

Crosby is under contract through 2029, with a potential out in 2028. He will make $30 million next season, so the Ravens need to clear up cap space while also retaining their key stars.

Right now, the Ravens have the 14th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. While the playoffs are still possible, they are far out of the equation. If the final two weeks keep them in the same range as people expect, they could hold a high draft pick that could catch Las Vegas’ attention.

Sure, DeCosta and Baltimore’s front office love to build through the draft, but Crosby is the exact player this team is missing. In a down year, they should look to capitalize on picking high in the draft and strike a deal for a franchise-altering star like Crosby.