After a few months of "will they, won't they," the Baltimore Ravens finally pulled the trigger on a huge trade for Maxx Crosby in exchange for two first-round picks. That was a humongous haul for the Las Vegas Raiders, who are looking down a rebuild as they look to presumably take Fernando Mendoza first overall in next month's draft.
For the Ravens, it represented their first big swing in a long time, and their first under new head coach Jesse Minter. The Detroit Lions, as a result, were out of the race for a big name pass rusher - although, with that asking price, they were never even invited to the table.
Until, perhaps, tonight.
In a breaking post from the Raiders, it was shared that the Ravens had backed out of their deal for Crosby. Reportedly, it was due to a failed physical, which players must pass in order to see trades get approved. That means the Raiders are out of that extra first rounder, and out of $30 million in cap space. And, it means the Ravens just saw a few key free agents walk for, probably, no reason.
With this news, it's clear that Crosby can be had for far less than a first. Shaky physicals mean potentially career-altering injuries down the line, although you can never be sure. If Detroit was iffy about parting with a huge package for Crosby, maybe they can get in on the action for the Michigan-native now for the right price.
Crosby to the Lions dream could still be alive after twist in Ravens trade
With his reportedly failed physical following a meniscus repair done around Super Bowl Sunday, Las Vegas' asking price has likely taken a huge hit. There are still plenty of premier pass rushers on the market left in free agency. Most notably, Trey Hendrickson is still waiting to land with a new team.
Also, interestingly timed, Hendrickson is reportedly set to make a decision tomorrow about where he signs. If Baltimore lands him, there's sure to be some fallout from that physical.
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Obviously, Detroit is looking to make smaller moves this offseason. That's evident from their re-signing of Malcolm Rodriguez, Rock Ya-Sin, and even Teddy Bridgewater. Also, bringing on smaller names like Cade Mays and Larry Borom show how the Lions are moving with their cap space this offseason: minimally.
They still have plenty of time to land a pass rusher who can contribute, such as Cam Jordan or Joey Bosa. But, with this news, maybe the Lions take a look at just how low John Spytek's ask can get for Crosby if this failed physical is actually big enough to cause concern about Crosby's liability as a long-term starter.