The Baltimore Ravens Have Filled The NFL Free Agency Period With High Drama

Earlier this offseason, the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders agreed to a trade for star defensive end Maxx Crosby. The Ravens were prepared to send two first-round draft picks for Crosby. But on Tuesday night, the day before the free agency signing period officially opened, the Ravens backed out of the deal.

Less than 24 hours later, the Ravens announced the team had agreed to a four-year, $112 million contract with Trey Hendrickson. Signing the former Cincinnati Bengals defensive end not only hurt an AFC North rival, but it also ended Baltimore's pursuit of Crosby.

Per senior NFL insider Diana Russini, it's widely accepted around the league that the Ravens simply got cold feet. Crosby is three years younger than Hendrickson, though the former is coming off significant knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus.

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After Crosby underwent a physical, the Ravens had new concerns about his health and longevity. General manager Eric DeCosta, who was also working to sign quarterback Lamar Jackson to a long-term deal, went a different route. The Ravens restructured Jackson's deal, which gave them the additional salary cap space to offer Hendrickson a contract.

Adding to all of this offseason drama is the fact that Hendrickson is also coming off an injury-riddled campaign. He missed ten games last season with core, hip, and pelvis issues. That came after two seasons without missing a game at all, and four straight Pro Bowl seasons. In 2024, Hendrickson was named to the All-Pro first team and was second in Defensive Player of the Year voting.

The Ravens are confident that Hendrickson can bounce back this season. More importantly, they value their draft capital. Being able to sign a quality defensive end without giving up any draft picks? That's a worthwhile move, even if it means the Ravens have to go back on their word.

As of now, it looks like Crosby is planning to remain with the Raiders. We imagine the events of this offseason will make him even more motivated on the field next year.