Maxx Crosby, recently traded from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens, has sparked debate following remarks made by ESPN analyst Peter Schrager on First Take. Schrager claimed Crosby might be the best run-defending pass rusher in the NFL, a statement that drew criticism from fans on social media despite statistical data supporting this view.
Crosby’s Trade to Baltimore and Its Context
Drafted by the Raiders in 2019, Crosby moved to Baltimore in exchange for two future first-round draft picks, specifically the Ravens’ selections in 2026 and 2027. After the trade, Crosby publicly apologized to Raiders supporters for not delivering championship success. At 28 years old, Crosby is now joining a Baltimore team that showed vulnerability on defense last season, notably recording just 30 sacks—the franchise’s lowest sack total in 15 years.
Expectations for Crosby’s Impact on the Ravens
The Ravens have gained a highly regarded defensive talent in Crosby, a two-time second-team All-Pro known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and contain the run. Head coach Jesse Minter is expected to utilize Crosby’s all-around defensive skills to bolster both pass rush and run defense, areas where Baltimore struggled during the 2025 season.
Expert Endorsement of Crosby’s Run Defense Abilities
During the live broadcast of First Take, Schrager revealed he received a message from an NFL coach, who praised Crosby as probably the best run-defending pass rusher in the league. Schrager told his co-hosts:
“Stephen A., I would just add this, as I was doing that whole rant and throwing my flowers at Maxx Crosby, an NFL coach reached out to me in real time,”
and later added,
“And I said OK. Jason McCourty, you know more about that than I do, but when you put that altogether and you put that on the Baltimore Ravens franchise with those fans and that scene, yeah, sign me up, let’s go.”
These endorsements from insiders emphasize Crosby’s reputation within the professional football community, despite fans’ differing opinions.
Fan Reactions and Contrasting Opinions
Despite Schrager’s expert backing, many social media users expressed skepticism. Comments ranged from urging the analyst to stop to comparisons with other players, such as Myles Garrett. One fan stated:
“One of the best sure. But Myles Garrett is the best run defender at that position. It just happens to get overlooked by his insane pass rush.”
This disagreement highlights the differing perspectives between fans and insiders on Crosby’s ranking among elite edge defenders.
Statistical Evidence Supporting Crosby’s Run Defense Prowess
Objective data from the NFL’s Next Gen Stats support Schrager’s and the coach’s praises. In the 2025 season, Crosby recorded 24 run stuffs for losses or no gain, the highest total by any defensive lineman since Calais Campbell’s 26 in 2018. Furthermore, since Crosby’s NFL debut in 2019, he has achieved 112 run stuffs, ranking second overall in the league and 29 more than any other edge defender.
“Since his debut in 2019, Crosby’s 112 run stuffs are the 2nd-most in the NFL and 29 more than any other edge defender.”
Significance of Crosby’s Acquisition for Baltimore’s Defense
Crosby’s arrival offers the Ravens a chance to significantly improve their defensive capabilities, particularly against the run, an area that challenged them in the previous season. His proven ability to disrupt running plays complements Baltimore’s urgent need for a more productive pass rush and run defense combination. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Crosby integrates into Jesse Minter’s defensive scheme and whether he can elevate the Ravens’ defense to a new level.
