Ravens could land perfect perfect pass rush insurance after latest trade rumors
The Baltimore Ravens have been reported to be seeking defensive help as the NFL trade deadline draws near. Despite their rough start, they improved to 2-5 with an encouraging Week 8 victory over the Chicago Bears. With an easy road in the coming weeks, the possibility of the Ravens being buyers is only expected to increase.
Reports have indicated that the Ravens are making calls for cornerback help. Even after adding safety Alohi Gilman in the Odafe Oweh trade, the secondary could use some depth, especially given corner Jaire Alexander’s nagging knee injury. Still, that is not the most significant need on Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr’s unit.
Baltimore’s pass rush is one of the worst in the NFL. They have been struggling since the start of the year, and the departure of Oweh and injuries to outside linebackers Tavius Robinson and Adisa Isaac have only worsened the problem. The team's total of nine sacks ranks tied for second-worst in the league, and while the defensive front took strides in Week 8, the pressure remained relatively inconsistent.
General Manager Eric DeCosta should be searching for pass rush insurance on the trade market, and the perfect fit could be New Orleans Saints edge rusher Carl Granderson.
Ravens could trade for Carl Granderson
Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano put together a list of the top 15 players who could be available at this year’s trade deadline. Granderson made the list at the number 11 spot. Manzano wrote:
“Granderson hasn’t gotten enough attention for how consistent he’s been in New Orleans since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2019.”
“Saints GM Mickey Loomis could decide to trade him because the team committed to a three-year, $51 million contract extension for Chase Young this past offseason. Also, New Orleans’s salary cap would benefit from moving Granderson’s contract, which has high cap numbers for the next two seasons.”
Baltimore would have to rework their cap space with extensions, cuts, and restructures to make a Granderson move work moving forward. He is set to be an unrestricted free agent in 2028, giving the Ravens a player who could help them both now and in the future. While his cap hit reaches over $18 million in 2026 and 2027, it is a deal worth making.
Granderson has been a consistent threat off the edge since 2020. He has totaled at least five sacks in every season since then, excluding his 2021 campaign, which saw him tally just three sacks.
In 2025, he is off to a solid start with 4.5 sacks in eight games. That number is exactly half of the sacks Baltimore has totaled entering Week 9 and would instantly make him the team’s leading sack getter.
The Ravens would not have to part with too much to get Granderson. A trade package would likely include a late-day two pick or an early-day three pick. With Baltimore desperate for help along the edge and still looking to make a playoff push, they should look into striking a deal with the Saints.
Maxx Crosby Promises a Dominant Return: ‘We’ll Keep Battling Every Single Play’
The Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive line is facing a significant challenge with one of their leaders, Maxx Crosby, battling an injury. Known for his relentless play, Crosby has been a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense since joining the team. Despite the setback, Crosby remains confident and determined to make a dominant return to the field.
In a recent statement, Crosby made it clear that the injury will not define him or his team. “Injuries are part of the game, but they don’t define who I am. I’ll keep pushing, keep fighting, and I’ll be back stronger than ever. I’m not backing down, and neither is this defense. We’ll keep battling every single play,”
Crosby’s leadership on and off the field has been critical to the Raiders’ defensive unit. His relentless style of play, combined with his ability to disrupt offenses, has made him a key player. The injury is undoubtedly a blow to the defense, but Crosby’s mindset is clear: this is just another challenge to overcome. He is determined to return stronger and continue being a force for the Raiders.
Throughout his career, Crosby has faced adversity and emerged stronger each time. His determination to keep fighting, even in the face of injury, is not just about him — it’s about setting an example for the rest of the team. Crosby’s leadership is invaluable, and it’s evident that his commitment to the team is unwavering.
The Raiders have relied on Crosby’s energy and ability to make game-changing plays. His absence may temporarily shift the dynamic of the defense, but with Crosby’s mindset and his work ethic, his return will undoubtedly reinvigorate the team. His words,
As the Raiders prepare for their upcoming games, they will undoubtedly miss Crosby’s presence on the field. However, his resolve to return stronger, coupled with the defensive depth the Raiders have, will be key in sustaining their competitive edge. The team will need to rally together and maintain their defensive focus, knowing that Crosby will be back to lead them as soon as he is able.
For now, Maxx Crosby’s focus is on recovery, and when he returns, it’s clear that he’ll be ready to make his mark once again. His determination to overcome obstacles and keep fighting is a rallying cry for his teammates, and the Raiders will no doubt look to Crosby’s example as they continue to battle for a playoff spot.
