The last 24 hours in the NFL have been absolutely chaotic, and not necessarily in a good way. The blockbuster trade between the Raiders and the Ravens for Maxx Crosby shockingly imploded days after the deal was made, and now controversy is swirling in the league, with many believing the Ravens got cold feet.
That has only become more likely since they signed Trey Hendrickson to a four-year deal this morning.
That puts Crosby back on the map for the Patriots, who were reportedly interested in potentially trading for the superstar pass rusher before the initial deal with Baltimore was reached. But there are plenty of rumors suggesting they have no chance of getting him in the door if they were still hoping to, and it's not just because Tom Brady could block a trade to New England.
The latest chatter from NFL insiders suggests Mike Vrabel and Co. should pursue other options, despite letting K'Lavon Chaisson walk in free agency and missing out on countless other pass-rushing options already.
The Patriots still don't appear to have a chance at trading for Maxx Crosby
According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Raiders are not expected to lower their asking price of two first-round picks for Crosby, which is what the Ravens sent with the deal.
Despite the alleged failed physical that led them to back out, which would presumably lower the asking price, the Raiders are not going to back down; therefore, the Patriots have no reason to inquire.
Teams that are interested in Maxx Crosby believe the Raiders aren't going to come off their asking price of two first-round picks at this time.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 11, 2026
At one point, it was fun to speculate about the Patriots giving up that kind of draft capital to get a player like Crosby on the team. But now that the dust has settled and controversy has erupted around his alleged failed physical, it might be best for New England to use their assets on another player; rumors claim the Raiders now intend to keep Crosby on the team.
There are still a few free agents that might pique their interest, and from all accounts, the incoming EDGE class is said to be deep, so that might be where the team decides to focus their energy now.
They could inquire about trading for Jonathan Greenard, who the Vikings are said to be interested in moving on from. He could be a good option that won't cost as much but would still be a big-time addition to their roster.