3 and Out with John Middlekauff Ravens CANCEL Maxx Crosby trade with Raiders + NFL Free Agency Mailbag
Mar 11, 2026
They unpack the surprise cancellation of a high-profile trade and the medical and roster implications behind it. They debate what the team should do next and how free agency strategies shape roster building. A mailbag tackles quarterback recognition, rebuilding philosophies, contract decisions, and scouting insights. The show also covers coaching, ownership influence, and the league’s weird roster rules.
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Ravens Cancelled Crosby Trade Over Medical Concerns
- The Ravens backed out of the Maxx Crosby trade after a failed physical or medical concerns, leaving Crosby with the Raiders and their 14th pick returned.
- John Middlekauff says the move is rare but likely driven by doctors' findings and cap/roster constraints, making keeping Crosby reasonable for the Raiders.
Team Doctors Can Make Or Break Trades
- Medical evaluations at physicals can dramatically change trade outcomes; teams sometimes disagree on medical risk and it affects draft/contract value.
- Middlekauff compares past examples (Drew Brees) to show doctors' opinions vary and picks can be impacted long-term.
Keep Crosby And Build Around Him
- If you're the Raiders, keep Maxx Crosby rather than forcing a fractured relationship or shopping him immediately.
- Middlekauff argues Crosby plus new defensive veteran signings gives the Raiders a credible roster without surrendering the 14th pick.