The Dallas Cowboys actively pursued Maxx Crosby during the recent trade negotiations, offering significant draft capital to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, the Baltimore Ravens ultimately outbid Dallas by providing two first-round draft picks, securing Crosby’s services and leaving the Cowboys empty-handed. This pivotal moment unfolded amid intense competition in early 2026.
Dallas’ Defensive Struggles and the Urgency for Crosby
Coming off a disappointing 7-9-1 season in 2025, the Cowboys faced a defense ranked 30th in the NFL, despite possessing the league’s second-best total offense. This defensive weakness prevented them from reaching the playoffs, and with star linebacker Micah Parsons no longer on the roster, the need to rebuild the defense became urgent. Maxx Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowler known for his disruptive presence on the edge, seemed like the perfect solution.
In the 2025 campaign alone, Crosby recorded 10 sacks and 73 total tackles. Since entering the league in 2019, he accumulated 69.5 sacks, 133 tackles for loss, and 164 quarterback hits—numbers that few edge rushers match and that could dramatically upgrade a struggling defense.
Factors Behind Dallas Passing on the Crosby Deal
Although Dallas was genuinely interested and placed a notable package on the table, they ultimately decided not to meet the aggressive offer from Baltimore. The Cowboys held the 12th and 20th overall picks in the 2026 draft but had critical roster gaps in cornerback, linebacker, safety, and edge rusher positions. Trading away multiple first-round picks for a single player could have left Dallas dangerously thin across these needs.
Furthermore, Dallas did not possess a second-round pick in the 2026 draft, implying their offer included a 2027 second-rounder, reducing its immediate value compared to Baltimore’s two first-round selections. From Las Vegas’ perspective, prioritizing draft capital to support their up-and-coming quarterback was a clear strategic decision.
“The Cowboys were willing to offer a first- and second-round pick to the Raiders for Maxx Crosby but, logically and understandably, Las Vegas opted for the two first-round picks from the Ravens.” ?Adam Schefter, ESPN Analyst
Next Targets for Dallas Following the Trade Outcome
With Crosby off the board, Dallas has turned its focus toward other available edge rushers. Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals has emerged as the leading alternative, with reports indicating the Cowboys are prepared to pursue him aggressively. Another potential target receiving consideration is Jonathan Greenard from the Minnesota Vikings, providing Dallas with options to reinforce their pass rush going into free agency.
The Imperative for Dallas to Revitalize Their Defense Quickly
The reality for Dallas is that their window to fix defensive issues cannot be delayed any longer. The 2026 season approaches rapidly, and the Cowboys remain well-equipped with valuable draft picks and salary cap space, enabling moves that could reshape their defense.
Despite the disappointment over losing Crosby, Dallas’ front office appears determined to make impactful decisions to reverse last season’s defensive woes. Owner Jerry Jones has publicly expressed his ambition to win multiple Super Bowls, an achievement that seems unlikely unless stops are made to improve a defense that ranked near the bottom of the league.
The Cowboys were willing to offer a first- and second-round pick to the Raiders for Maxx Crosby but, logically and understandably, Las Vegas opted for the two first-round picks from the Ravens. https://t.co/v6z4Uum1Lh
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2026
