Maxx Crosby, the Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive end, has shared insights into a tumultuous period following a proposed trade to the Baltimore Ravens that ultimately fell through. In a recent episode of his podcast, The Rush With Maxx Crosby, the 28-year-old athlete reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions he experienced during the lead-up to the failed move.
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Initially, Crosby was enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Ravens. The two teams had come to a mutual agreement regarding the trade, paving the way for what he hoped would be a fresh start. However, as he arrived in Baltimore on March 10 for a crucial physical examination designed to assess his fitness post-surgery, unease began to take hold of him.

Recalling his arrival at the Ravens’ facilities, Crosby noted, “I got a weird feeling right away.” His anxiety escalated as he noted that he did not meet Ravens head coach Jesse Minter or general manager Eric DeCosta until after the physical had taken place—an unexpected delay that caused him concern. He remarked on his frustration at not seeing DeCosta for nearly five hours, despite the trade having been recently made.

When Crosby eventually met Minter, his initial optimism waned. Describing the coach’s demeanor, Crosby observed that there was “something off” about the interaction, pointing out Minter’s “blank face.” Despite the strange atmosphere, he endeavoured to remain positive, thinking perhaps the coach simply had a different style or approach than he was accustomed to.
The situation took a more alarming turn when Crosby was informed that one of the Ravens’ team doctors had expressed “concerns” about his health and future. He was left in limbo as the team stated they needed further consultation before making a final decision regarding his potential signing. This uncertainty left him feeling “terrified,” especially after working hard to recover from a knee surgery he had undergone just nine weeks prior.
In an attempt to ease his anxiety, Crosby reached out to his surgeon, Neal ElAttrache, whom he greatly respected. “He’s the best f—ing surgeon in the country,” Crosby asserted, recalling that ElAttrache reassured him about the success of his recovery. “Your knee is great. You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be or even ahead of schedule,” the surgeon confirmed, providing him with detailed medical literature to illustrate the typical recovery timeline following meniscus surgery.
However, just as hope seemed to be restored, Crosby was dealt another blow when his agent, CJ LaBoy, informed him that the Ravens had decided to rescind the trade. Overwhelmed by the news, he described his feelings, saying, “I’m frozen. I’m like, ‘What the f—,’ ” expressing a blend of anger, confusion, and frustration at the abrupt conclusion of what could have been a significant career shift.
In the aftermath of the experience, Crosby reflected on the ordeal, concluding that it was not meant to be. “I wasn’t supposed to be in Baltimore and that’s it,” he stated firmly, reinforcing his commitment to the Raiders. He added, “I’m meant to be a Raider. It’s through my damn core. That’s it,” expressing a deep-seated loyalty to his current team despite the uncertainties inherent in professional American football.
Crosby’s comments encapsulate the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where trades, injuries, and personal circumstances can shift rapidly. Despite the exit or changes that may come with the sport, he indicated that his identity and dedication to the Raiders remain steadfast: “I’m in this s— for life. Until that changes — which I don’t foresee.”
His candid revelations about this fleeting episode in his career serve as a reminder of the often hidden emotional struggles faced by professional athletes behind the scenes.
