Maxx Crosby, one of the nastiest defensive ends in the league, was almost wearing another uniform for Week 1 of the 2026 season. After his trade to the Baltimore Ravens totally imploded, it was the Los Angeles Rams who reportedly came the closest to snatching him up.
The Wild Ride That Almost Was
Remember back in March? Crosby was actually traded to the Ravens for multiple first-round picks. But drama hit hard days later: the Ravens backed out due to a failed physical from Crosby’s offseason knee surgery. You’d think a player would be fuming, right? Crosby kept it 100. He hit Twitter with a legendary tweet: “I’m a Raider. I’m back.” That wasn’t just a statement; it was a clear declaration he wanted to stay.
The Chase For Number 98
Just because Crosby wanted to stay didn’t stop other teams from trying to pry him away. ESPN spilled the tea: the Rams, Dallas Cowboys, Eagles, and 49ers were all reportedly throwing out offers. A lot of those offers were even described as “pennies on the dollars,” trying to lowball for a guy worth multiple first-rounders! Yet, Crosby stood firm. Reports say he kept telling every team he wanted to remain with the Raiders, actively shutting down the buzz.
The Rams’ Big Play and The Cost
With the Raiders and Rams unable to hash out a deal, Los Angeles pivoted hard. They went “all-in” for another elite pass rusher, Myles Garrett. That move wasn’t cheap, costing the Rams Jared Verse and multiple draft picks. Crosby, meanwhile, is still doing Maxx Crosby things. Since entering the NFL in 2019, he’s been dominant, one of the best defensive ends. The 29-year-old has five straight Pro Bowl nods and led the league in tackles for loss twice. The Raiders knew what they had, signing him to a monster three-year, $106.5 million extension in 2025, keeping him through 2029. While other teams scrambled, the Raiders kept their guy, who clearly loves being there.
So, as we watch the 2026 season unfold, it’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can change. The Rams are rolling with Garrett, and the Raiders are still rocking with Crosby. Makes you wonder what could’ve been, right? But for now, both teams have their guy, and the drama of that offseason feels like a distant, wild memory.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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