The Baltimore Ravens’ decision to pull out of a blockbuster trade for Maxx Crosby sent shockwaves through the NFL, but the blame lies squarely with them, not the Las Vegas Raiders. The deal, which would have sent two first-round picks to Las Vegas, collapsed after the Ravens cited concerns from Crosby’s physical exam. Yet the star defensive end’s injury history—eight surgeries in seven years, including recent knee surgery—was no secret.

Within 24 hours, Baltimore signed edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $120 million contract, raising questions about whether they had buyer’s remorse or simply found a cheaper alternative. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta expressed regret, saying, “We were just not able to complete the process of trying to acquire the player based on our assessment of the situation. I’ve got a responsibility to do what’s best for the club, and that’s what we always try to do. Nobody is more upset about this than me. Gutted by it, actually.”

The Raiders, meanwhile, lost the 14th overall pick in April’s draft and must now recalibrate their rebuild. They could still trade Crosby if the market offers suitable compensation, or they could attempt to mend fences. Crosby himself posted on X: “Everything Happens For A Reason. Believe Nothing You Hear & Half Of What You See. Im A Raider. I’m Back.”

For now, the Ravens hold the advantage, having kept their picks and added a top pass rusher. The Raiders face an uncertain future with their disgruntled star, all because Baltimore changed course.