The Dallas Cowboys are no longer expected to pursue Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, according to a person with knowledge of the team’s thinking. The potential trade fell apart after the Baltimore Ravens rejected a deal with the Raiders on Tuesday night due to health concerns regarding Crosby.
Shifting Priorities for Dallas
The Cowboys had previously offered a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft and a 2027 second-round pick for Crosby, but this was not enough to secure a deal with the Raiders. The Ravens had agreed to send two first-round picks to Las Vegas for the five-time Pro Bowler.
Instead of pursuing Crosby further, the Cowboys have finalized a trade for Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary, a deal expected to be official on Wednesday, the first day of the NFL’s League Year. Dallas offered a 2027 fourth-round pick to acquire Gary.
Addressing Defensive Needs
The Cowboys’ pursuit of a pass rusher comes after a 2025 season where their defense allowed a franchise record 511 points. Dallas used one of the first-round picks acquired in the Parsons trade to acquire defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets at the trade deadline during the 2025 season.
The team is transitioning to a 3-4 base defense and is focused on adding outside linebackers to complement defensive tackles Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams. Defensive end Sam Williams has been re-signed, and will add depth alongside inside linebacker Marist Liufau. Gary is expected to start at outside linebacker, alongside Donovan Ezeiruaku, who is recovering from hip surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Ravens to back out of the trade for Maxx Crosby?
The Baltimore Ravens rejected the trade with the Las Vegas Raiders due to health issues for Maxx Crosby.
What did the Cowboys offer for Maxx Crosby?
The Cowboys offered one of their two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL draft and a 2027 second-round pick to the Raiders for Crosby.
Who did the Cowboys acquire instead of Maxx Crosby?
The Cowboys acquired edge rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick.
As the Cowboys reshape their defensive roster, how will the addition of Rashan Gary impact their overall strategy for the upcoming season?
