The Buffalo Bills were reportedly in the running for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby earlier this offseason, but it appeared their chance had passed. Recent developments, however, have dramatically shifted the situation and potentially put Buffalo back in the conversation.
Crosby was reportedly part of a trade agreement that would have sent him from the Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round draft picks. That deal fell through unexpectedly, with the Ravens withdrawing from the agreement, reportedly due to concerns arising from a medical evaluation.
This sudden change could impact Crosby’s trade market in one of two ways. It might make other teams hesitant to finalize a deal, or it could potentially lower the asking price for the star pass rusher.
A reduced cost could be a crucial factor for the Bills. According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, Buffalo was among a group of teams—including the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, and Baltimore Ravens—that had expressed interest in Crosby during the NFL Scouting Combine.
The primary hurdle for the Bills was the value of their draft capital. With the 26th overall pick, Buffalo’s first-round selection was significantly less valuable on the league’s trade value chart compared to the 12th pick held by Dallas or the 14th pick held by Baltimore. This disparity meant the Bills would have needed to add a second-round pick to their offer to compete, a price that led them to back out of negotiations.
Now, with the Ravens out of the picture and the trade market potentially reset, Buffalo’s draft position might be more viable. The team has been actively seeking an edge rusher, having also been linked to free agent Trey Hendrickson earlier in the offseason. This clear need could motivate them to re-engage in trade discussions for Crosby.
With the situation fluid and the asking price potentially more manageable, the Bills could once again be a primary contender to acquire the defensive standout.
