NFL insider reveals what kept the Dallas Cowboys from landing Maxx Crosby in a trade, and what’s next
The Dallas Cowboys were not in the winning side of things in the Maxx Crosby sweepstakes.
Well, the Dallas Cowboys are not getting Maxx Crosby. The Las Vegas Raiders superstar edge rusher is instead headed to the Baltimore Ravens.
And to make things a little bit harder for the fans of America’s Team, we now know exactly what kept the Cowboys from executing the deal. Let’s dive straight into it.
What kept the Cowboys from getting Crosby
It’s not that complex, really. The Ravens gave up two first-round picks for Crosby; No. 14 overall this year, and another in 2027.
The Cowboys were unwilling to throw multiple first-round picks themselves. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cowboys offer stood at a first-rounder and a second-round pick.
Two quick, important notes on such an offer: Since the Cowboys don’t own a second rounder in 2026, it would’ve been a 2027 pick instead. It’s fair to assume the first-rounder was the Cowboys’ first this year, No. 12 overall.
The positive side of things? The Cowboys need quantity to fix their defense with roster holes at cornerback, linebacker, safety, and edge rusher. Losing two first-round picks would have made that an even bigger challenge and required the front office to spend beyond Crosby.
With picks 12 and 20, the Cowboys are expected to be within range of starting-caliber defenders.
What’s next?
With Crosby out of the picture, the Cowboys are expected to remain in aggressive pursuit of a star edge rusher. The next candidate is obvious: Cincinnati Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson.
Hendrickson is bound for free agency and will be the best option available. Earlier in the week, reports suggested the Cowboys would pivot to him if they missed out on Crosby. The only problem is, so will other teams that were in the running for the Raiders star.
The legal negotiation period kicks off Monday at noon ET. Let’s see if Jerry Jones and Co. walk away with the new pass rushing crown jewel of the offseason.
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