On Saturday, star pass rusher Maxx Crosby emotionally bid farewell to Raiders fans in a nearly 13-minute video after being traded to the Baltimore Ravens. The move ends Crosby’s seven-season tenure with the Raiders, where he developed into a five-time Pro Bowler, and signals his commitment to pursuing a Super Bowl championship with his new team.
The trade, finalized Friday night, sends Crosby from Las Vegas to Baltimore in exchange for two first-round draft picks, including the No. 14 overall selection in the upcoming NFL draft. A source familiar with the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed details ahead of the NFL’s official new year announcement.
Crosby Shares Heartfelt Message to Raiders Fans
Expressing gratitude and deep emotion, Crosby said,
“I gave you all everything I got, and I have no regrets about that. I put everything into trying to win as a Raider. I’m not trying to get emotional already, but it’s tough, man. It’s been a damn journey.”
He admitted that his aspiration had always been to remain a Raider throughout his entire career, emphasizing that Las Vegas will always be home to him.
Recounting his time with the Raiders, Crosby added,
“Ever since I’ve been here, I’ve had one goal and one mission and that’s to become the best version of myself and help bring a championship back to the Raider organization. I feel like I left everything I had on the table for this team. I’ve given my heart and soul, and I feel like I let you all down. Ever since Day One, I’ve wanted to create and build a winner with the Raiders.”
Performance and Impact Leading Up to the Trade
At 28 years old, Crosby’s recent season showcased his continued dominance with 10 sacks and a career-high 28 tackles for loss, marking his fourth season with double-digit sacks. His consistent high-level play, despite battling injuries, made him a coveted asset.
The Ravens, recognizing their need for a more aggressive pass rush after finishing tied for 28th in sacks last season, initiated discussions with the Raiders once it became clear they might part with Crosby. Unlike the Raiders, who are undergoing a major rebuild, Baltimore aims to contend immediately, led by quarterback Lamar Jackson and new head coach Jesse Minter.
Crosby’s Ambition with the Ravens and New Challenges Ahead
Looking ahead, Crosby stated firmly,
“I’m going there with one purpose, and that’s to help this team get to where it ultimately needs to be and where everybody wants to go, and that’s winning the Super Bowl. I know it’s going to be very difficult. I know there’s no guarantees in this, but I’m going to give everything in my heart and soul to bring a championship to Baltimore.”
Though initially reluctant to leave the Raiders, Crosby’s frustration with the organization’s struggles was evident, especially after being placed on injured reserve late last season due to a knee issue—an injury that forced him off the field against his personal standards. After being informed of this decision, he left the team facility, signaling a turning point in his relationship with the club.
Maintaining Loyalty Despite New Beginnings
Despite the separation, Crosby expressed no bitterness towards the Raiders or their general manager John Spytek. “I bleed silver and black,” he said.
“That’ll never change, and I’m a Raider for life. I truly want to finish, when it’s all said and done, in a Raiders jersey whenever that time comes. But for the time being, it’s a new day. I’m going to Baltimore. Flock Nation, everybody in the whole city of Baltimore, I’ve got a lot to learn. Everything is going to be new to me, and I’m excited in attacking this head on like I do everything else.”
Significance of the Trade for Crosby and Both Teams
This trade marks a major transition for Maxx Crosby, whose move to the Ravens signifies a shift from a franchise rebuilding its foundation to one striving for immediate success. With Baltimore investing significant draft capital to acquire Crosby, expectations are high for him to bolster their defense and contribute to a potential Super Bowl run.
For the Raiders, receiving two first-round picks offers valuable assets to accelerate their reconstruction efforts. As Crosby begins this new chapter in Baltimore, his determination to reach the pinnacle of the NFL underscores both his individual ambition and the Ravens’ urgent championship aspirations.
— Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) March 7, 2026
