In a whirlwind turn of events, it seems Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza is poised to become the cornerstone of the Las Vegas Raiders as the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft on April 23. As the Raiders step into Year 1 under Klint Kubiak, they've been busy reshaping their roster to support Mendoza's anticipated arrival.
The Raiders shook the NFL landscape with a blockbuster move, trading star DE Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for two First Round picks. This deal positioned Las Vegas with the No. 14 pick this year and another first-rounder next year, setting the stage for a promising future with Mendoza leading the charge.
However, the NFL world was caught off guard when the Ravens pulled out of the Crosby trade at the eleventh hour. This unexpected twist sends ripples through Las Vegas' plans for the 2026 season and beyond.
In a surprising announcement on social media, the Raiders stated:
"The Baltimore Ravens have backed out of our trade agreement for Maxx Crosby. We will have no further comment at this time."
It turns out, Crosby's physical was the sticking point. Reports indicate that Crosby, who suffered a torn meniscus in Week 3 last season, did not pass his physical, leading to the trade's collapse.
NFL insider Dianna Russini tweeted:
"Maxx Crosby did not pass his physical today, per sources. The Ravens get their first round picks back."
With Crosby staying put, the Raiders' defense gains a boost. The team has already strengthened its lineup with the signings of LB Quay Walker, LB Nakobe Dean, DE Kwity Paye, CB Eric Stokes, and DE Malcolm Koonce, along with a trade for CB Taron Johnson.
Yet, it's clear the Raiders had their sights set on those First Round picks to fuel their rebuild. The absence of these picks for 2026 and 2027 now forces Las Vegas to rethink their strategy as they continue to build around Mendoza. While Mendoza remains the likely top pick, the Raiders will need to navigate this new landscape with creativity and foresight.