The Baltimore Ravens have secured a major signing with defensive end Trey Hendrickson on a four-year, $112 million contract, just hours after pulling out of a blockbuster trade for Maxx Crosby.
Hendrickson Joins Ravens Rivalry
Trey Hendrickson, a 31-year-old four-time Pro Bowler, moves from the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played since 2021, to stay within the AFC North. He began his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints in 2017. The Ravens outmaneuvered offers from the Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts to land the most sought-after free agent still available.
Hendrickson faced a contract dispute with the Bengals last summer, issuing a trade request before agreeing to a one-year, $30 million extension. Now with Baltimore, he will confront his former team and quarterback Joe Burrow twice each season.
Crosby Trade Derails Over Medical Concerns
The Ravens abruptly ended negotiations for Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby, who was set to join Baltimore in exchange for two first-round draft picks. The deal, initially agreed upon Friday, fell apart after Crosby underwent medical evaluations at the Ravens’ facility on Tuesday.
Las Vegas issued a statement confirming the collapse: “The Baltimore Ravens have backed out of our trade agreement for Maxx Crosby. We will have no further comment at this time.” Trades become official when the league year starts Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET.
Crosby, one of the league’s top defensive ends, is rehabilitating from a serious knee injury. Baltimore decided against proceeding based on the medical results. Crosby shared a personal message on social media Wednesday morning: “3/11/20. 6 Years Sober. God Doesn’t Make Mistakes.”
His agent, CJ LaBoy, addressed concerns about the medical evaluation on X.
Raiders Field Inquiries for Crosby
Multiple teams have contacted the Raiders about Crosby’s availability. Las Vegas plans to support his recovery and retain him but remains open to other proposals. The Dallas Cowboys, who previously offered the No. 12 overall pick and a 2027 second-rounder, shifted focus after acquiring edge rusher Rashan Gary. Interest also persists from the Eagles, Bears, and Lions.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta made the pivotal call to abandon the Crosby pursuit.
Raiders’ Free Agency Push
Las Vegas invested $281.5 million in free agency starting Monday, with minority owner Tom Brady playing a key role. Key additions include former Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum and defensive players Kwity Paye, Nakobe Dean, and Quay Walker, bolstering the unit amid Crosby trade talks.
