The Baltimore Ravens narrowly missed securing the AFC North title last season, engaging in a fierce division battle that extended to the final regular-season game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Both franchises made significant coaching changes this offseason, yet the Ravens remain poised to challenge for the division crown in 2026. In a strategic move aimed at strengthening their defense, the Ravens are reportedly monitoring the availability of Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby, according to NFL insider Albert Breer. As one of the league’s premier pass rushers, Crosby’s addition could immediately uplift Baltimore’s struggling defensive unit.
Maxx Crosby’s potential trade has garnered attention as the Raiders appear ready to move the standout defender. The Ravens’ defensive difficulties last year make this prospect significant, potentially transforming their pass rush capabilities and overall competitiveness within the AFC North.
💥💥 @TheMMQB Takeaways 💥💥
➡️ @Lions’ 2023 class a case study for ’26 Draft.➡️ Combine risers and fallers.➡️ Next steps for @CrosbyMaxx.➡️ What lies ahead for @K1 and @Tua.➡️ Will the @Eagles move AJ Brown?➡️ @KirkCousins8’s future.➡️ MORE!https://t.co/uJ4X3QkD29
— Albert Breer, NFL Insider
Houston Texans Make Trade to Strengthen Running Back Group
Although the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2026 schedule remains undisclosed, their opponents are set, including a postseason rematch against the Houston Texans, who had a decisive victory over the Steelers in their most recent playoff meeting. The Texans, who fell in the subsequent playoff round, are actively improving their squad ahead of the new season. NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero revealed that Houston acquired running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions as part of a trade deal aimed at boosting their offensive depth.
Montgomery, a productive NFL back since 2019, has recently operated in a complementary capacity but still offers an upgrade to Houston’s backfield. This move highlights the Texans’ efforts to remain competitive and seeks to close the gap as they aim to return to postseason contention.
Trade! The Lions are sending RB David Montgomery to the Texans, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/ojzZyHVqZN
— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Reporter
Cincinnati Bengals Retain Offensive Guard Dalton Risner
Heading into the 2025 campaign, the Cincinnati Bengals were favored to make the playoffs but ultimately fell short, with injuries hampering their progress. Notably, the Bengals are the only AFC North team maintaining their head coach for 2026, which may offer stability within the division’s dynamic. Addressing a crucial area of concern, Cincinnati moved to secure continuity on their offensive line by re-signing guard Dalton Risner to a one-year contract.
Risner, originally a second-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2019, became a dependable starter and joined the Bengals last season. His retention indicates the team’s intention to fortify their offensive front as they prepare for another playoff push amid stiff division competition.
We have re-signed G Dalton Risner to a one-year contract.
🔗: https://t.co/2LKpYFZpV6 pic.twitter.com/mHCjfip6R5
— Cincinnati Bengals, Team Official
Implications of These Moves on the 2026 AFC North Landscape
The possibility of the Ravens acquiring Maxx Crosby signifies a bold effort to remedy defensive weaknesses and strengthen their bid for the AFC North title, particularly as they seek to unseat the reigning division champions, the Steelers. Crosby’s aggressive pass rushing could shift the defensive balance across the division, increasing pressure on opposing quarterbacks and elevating Baltimore’s overall defensive performance.
Meanwhile, the Texans’ trade for Montgomery and the Bengals’ move to retain Risner reflect a concerted focus on positional upgrades key to team resilience and future success. Each team is maneuvering carefully in the offseason, aiming to turn the tightly contested division into their advantage. These transactions set the stage for a potentially intense 2026 season as the teams address recent shortcomings and vie for playoff relevance.
💥💥 @TheMMQB Takeaways 💥💥
➡️ @Lions' 2023 class a case study for '26 Draft.
➡️ Combine risers and fallers.
➡️ Next steps for @CrosbyMaxx.
➡️ What lies ahead for @K1 and @Tua.
➡️ Will the @Eagles move AJ Brown?
➡️ @KirkCousins8's future.
➡️ MORE!https://t.co/uJ4X3QkD29— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 2, 2026
Trade! The Lions are sending RB David Montgomery to the Texans, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/ojzZyHVqZN
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026
We have re-signed G Dalton Risner to a one-year contract.
🔗: https://t.co/2LKpYFZpV6 pic.twitter.com/mHCjfip6R5
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) March 2, 2026
