COWBOYS UNLIKELY TO PURSUE MAXX CROSBY AFTER FAILED TRADE WITH RAVENS
The Dallas Cowboys have been active this offseason in reshaping their defensive roster, making multiple trades that have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. One major name that the Cowboys were reportedly pursuing was Maxx Crosby, the standout defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders. However, despite Dallas' rumored interest, a potential deal for Crosby is now off the table after a dramatic turn of events involving the Baltimore Ravens.
Crosby's Failed Physical with the Ravens: What Happens Next?
Last week, the Raiders sent shockwaves through the NFL when they agreed to trade Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round picks. The move seemed like a significant trade in the league, but just as quickly as it was announced, the deal fell apart. Crosby failed his physical examination with the Ravens, forcing Baltimore to back out of the trade. This unexpected twist left many wondering about Crosby's future, and whether the Cowboys, who were considered the runner-up for the defensive end, could re-enter the race for his services.
However, reports have indicated that Dallas is not interested in revisiting the trade talks with the Raiders. Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones addressed the situation with some caution, making it clear that while anything is possible, the team has largely moved on.
"We're pretty far down the road relative to what our plans are," Jones told the Associated Press. "So while I don't anticipate it, I don't want to rule anything out."
This statement leaves a small window of possibility, but it's unlikely that the Cowboys will engage in another trade for Crosby, especially after the initial high asking price of two first-round picks.
Maxx Crosby's Value After the Failed Trade
At 28 years old, Crosby remains one of the NFL's top pass rushers, having earned five Pro Bowl selections in his career. Despite his success on the field, the failed trade with the Ravens raised questions about his value, especially after failing his physical. Some analysts believe that his trade value has now dropped, potentially reducing the asking price from two first-round picks to something more reasonable, like one and a change.
However, for the Cowboys, who have already made a number of changes to their defensive line this offseason, parting with high draft picks for Crosby seems less likely now. Jones had already expressed hesitancy in committing to the high price for Crosby before the Ravens trade fell apart, and it's unclear if Dallas would now be willing to give up valuable future assets for a player with a potential health concern.
Cowboys' Defensive Line Moves: A Busy Offseason
While the Crosby trade talks may have fizzled out, the Cowboys have made several important moves to bolster their defense. So far this offseason, Dallas has made four trades, all related to strengthening their defensive line. The Cowboys started by sending defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick. They also swapped veteran Solomon Thomas to the Tennessee Titans for a seventh-round pick.
Additionally, the Cowboys made a key acquisition in Rashan Gary, bringing the Green Bay Packers' defensive lineman to Dallas in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Gary, who has shown significant potential in his career, is expected to add depth and strength to the Cowboys' defense for the 2026 season.
Conclusion: The Cowboys' Defensive Plans Moving Forward
It seems unlikely that the Cowboys will revisit trade talks with the Raiders for Maxx Crosby, especially given their current defensive acquisitions and the health concerns surrounding Crosby. With their focus already on new additions like Gary and recent trade moves on the defensive line, Dallas is likely set on its defensive strategy heading into the season.
For now, Cowboys fans can rest assured that while the pursuit of Crosby is over, their team remains a key player in the NFL's ongoing offseason drama, with a defense poised to continue its improvement. Whether they look for further depth or adjust their focus elsewhere remains to be seen, but the trade moves made so far signal that Dallas is building a defense capable of competing at a high level.