The AFC North division, known for its tough defenses, has become even more competitive with the Baltimore Ravens’ acquisition of Maxx Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowl EDGE rusher. This trade, completed ahead of the 2026 season, strengthens the Ravens’ defense under new head coach Jesse Minter and intensifies pressure on opposing quarterbacks like Joe Burrow. Crosby’s arrival is significant not only for Baltimore but also because it establishes a new benchmark for any future trade involving Myles Garrett, the Browns’ elite defensive star.
Implications of Crosby’s Trade for Myles Garrett’s Market Value
The Baltimore Ravens traded two first-round draft picks to the Las Vegas Raiders to secure Crosby, marking the first time in their franchise history they parted with a first-round selection for a player. This move mirrors prior deals in the league, such as the Dallas Cowboys’ acquisition of Micah Parsons, who was traded for consecutive first-round picks plus a starting-caliber player, defensive tackle Kenny Clark. While Crosby and Parsons are both outstanding defenders, Garrett’s value clearly exceeds theirs.
At age 30, Garrett is slightly older than Crosby (29) and much older than Parsons (26), yet his production remains unmatched. Garrett has amassed 56 more sacks than Crosby despite only two additional seasons in the NFL, averaging 28 more sacks per year than Crosby. His accolades include seven Pro Bowl selections, five All-Pro honors, two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a record-breaking 23-sack season. He also led the league in tackles for loss last season for the second year in a row.
Myles Garrett’s Elite Performance and Durability
Garrett’s exceptional durability complements his on-field dominance. Since being drafted first overall in 2017, he has appeared in 134 games with 131 starts, missing just 15 games throughout his nine-year career. Except for a 10-game season in 2019, he has rarely missed more than two consecutive games, demonstrating remarkable availability—an essential trait for any elite player.
In the previous season, Garrett logged 84 total pressures, ranking fourth among EDGE rushers, along with 45 hurries (eighth), 14 quarterback hits (eleventh), and 46 defensive stops (second). His ability to force turnovers is evident in his three forced fumbles, placing him fourth in that category. Pro Football Focus awarded Garrett the highest overall grade (92.7) among 115 eligible players at his position, including the top pass-rush grade (93.3) and the third-best run-defense grade (82.5).
Potential Trade Considerations for Myles Garrett
The Cleveland Browns’ struggles on defense have fueled speculation around Garrett’s future, especially since he requested a trade last offseason. While he subsequently agreed to a record-setting contract extension, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, his new deal includes a no-trade clause, complicating any potential move. This suggests that, despite frustrations, the Browns are unlikely to entertain trade offers anytime soon.
However, if the Browns eventually decide to explore options, the Crosby trade sends a clear message about the minimum value Garrett would command. The Browns would realistically require no less than two first-round picks, a mid-round draft choice, and a starting-caliber player in return. Garrett’s status as arguably the best defensive player of his generation and a future first-ballot Hall of Famer means Cleveland would demand an extraordinary return.
What This Means for the Browns and the NFL
The Maxx Crosby trade has widened the competitive gap in the AFC North while setting a new precedent for evaluating elite defensive talent. Garrett remains a cornerstone for the Browns’ defense, but the market’s increasing cost for premier edge rushers puts pressure on Cleveland to justify his long-term commitment or prepare for a blockbuster trade if circumstances change. For the Ravens, adding Crosby enhances their defensive identity immediately, signaling their intent to dominate the division.
As teams continue to recognize the elite value of players like Garrett and Crosby, the Myles Garrett trade value will likely remain a reference point for NFL front offices. The intersection of performance, durability, and contract considerations will shape future deals, making it clear that securing top-tier defensive stars will require significant investment and strategic planning.
