The Cincinnati Bengals had a relatively quiet day two of free agency, but recent developments could shake up their roster and the AFC North landscape. Just before free agency kicked off, the Baltimore Ravens were poised to make a splash with a trade for Raiders' star defensive end Maxx Crosby. However, Tuesday evening brought unexpected news: the trade fell through.
With the Crosby deal off the table, the Ravens appear to have shifted their focus to Trey Hendrickson. Hendrickson, who seems set to leave the Bengals after five seasons, has seen a cooling market. This shift could make him an attractive option for the Ravens, who might prefer a favorable contract with Hendrickson over the hefty price tag of two first-round picks and a contract extension for Crosby.
Multiple sources, including the Raiders, confirmed the Ravens' decision to back out of the Crosby trade. NFL Insider Jordan Schultz has now identified the Cowboys as potential front-runners for a Crosby trade, among other teams.
Before the legal negotiation period of free agency began, the Ravens were ready to send two first-round picks to the Raiders. However, with Hendrickson unexpectedly available, Baltimore decided to change course.
The Bengals had shown interest in Crosby, but the two first-round picks were too steep a price. After a quiet second day in free agency, it seems Cincinnati might have decided to hold off on pursuing other linked players like Devin Lloyd and Leo Chenal, possibly due to the voided trade.
Crosby had become a hot topic for the Bengals after a fallout with the Raiders last year. Following a disappointing season and issues with his injury management, the five-time Pro Bowler became disenchanted with the team that drafted him in 2019.
The Raiders are in a rebuilding phase, and this trade collapse has significant implications. If the Ravens pivot to Hendrickson, Crosby could become a trade target once more, with the Bengals potentially in the mix.
Cincinnati addressed two major needs on day one of free agency, focusing on EDGE and safety, which gives them flexibility with their No. 10 pick. They might consider parting with high picks for Crosby, though the Raiders' return would be less than the initial trade offer.
Both Hendrickson and Crosby come with potential contract challenges due to their 2025 injuries. Crosby’s season ended prematurely, while Hendrickson played only seven games for the Bengals last year. Age is also a factor, with Crosby nearing 29 and Hendrickson at 31, adding both risk and potential high reward to their profiles.