The Las Vegas Raiders are fully embracing a rebuild, initiating a significant shift in direction with a blockbuster trade sending defensive finish Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks (2026 and 2027). This move is coupled with the impending release of quarterback Geno Smith, barring a trade, marking a clear departure from the team’s recent strategies.

Raiders Initiate Complete Restart

The Raiders’ decision to move on from both Crosby and Smith signals a complete organizational reset. Smith, acquired in a trade from the Seattle Seahawks last year, was released after just one season in Las Vegas. The team will absorb $18.5 million in dead money but free up $8 million in cap space.

“By releasing Smith, the Raiders will open up $8 million in salary cap space while taking on $18.5 million in dead money.”

ESPN

The Raiders’ investment in Smith amounted to $58.5 million for a single season – the highest amount ever paid to a player for just one year with a franchise.

Draft Capital Fuels Rebuild

Combined with the return from the Crosby trade, the Raiders are now positioned to be major players in the upcoming NFL Draft. They currently hold the first overall pick, the 14th pick and three selections within the first 36 picks, totaling eleven picks overall. This substantial draft capital provides the Raiders with the flexibility to address multiple needs and build a foundation for the future.

Crosby’s Impact: A Defensive Force

Crosby’s departure leaves a void in Baltimore, but the Ravens are acquiring a proven pass rusher. Since entering the NFL in 2019, Crosby has consistently ranked among the league’s most productive defensive linemen.

• He leads the league with 45 tackles for loss on run-only plays over the last four years.
• Since 2021, Crosby leads the NFL with 81 tackles for loss and ranks second in quarterback pressures with 379.

Why the Ravens Made the Trade

Baltimore struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2025, ranking 29th in the league with just 30 sacks. The acquisition of Crosby addresses a critical need and provides a reliable edge rusher.

Financial Implications for Baltimore

Crosby’s contract has an average annual value of $35.5 million for Baltimore. However, due to the Raiders’ previous payments, the actual average cost for the Ravens is closer to $29.1 million per year, placing him eighth among edge rushers in terms of average annual salary.

The Risk for Baltimore

Despite Crosby’s proven track record, the trade carries some risk for the Ravens, given his age (turning 29 before the next season). Investing two first-round picks in a player approaching 30 is a significant commitment.

Why the Raiders Made the Trade

For the Raiders, the trade was a logical step in their rebuilding process. Crosby had reportedly expressed his frustration with the situation of the franchise, and the Raiders capitalized on his value by securing substantial draft capital.