The Baltimore Ravens have made several significant moves during the 2026 NFL free agency period, highlighted by the blockbuster signing of star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson after a dramatic turn of events involving a collapsed trade for Maxx Crosby. As the new league year officially begins, Baltimore has been active in reshaping its roster under new head coach Jesse Minter.
Ravens Land Trey Hendrickson After Crosby Trade Falls Through
The Ravens signed edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal, with $60 million fully guaranteed and a maximum value of $120 million. The move came approximately 13 hours after Baltimore backed out of a blockbuster trade that would have sent two first-round picks to the Las Vegas Raiders for Maxx Crosby.
Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and also had 17.5 in 2023, making him one of only five players in NFL history to record 17-plus sacks in consecutive seasons. The 31-year-old former Cincinnati Bengals star will now remain in the AFC North, joining a division rival after his contract negotiations with Cincinnati broke down.
Tyler Huntley Returns as Lamar Jackson's Backup
Before the legal tampering period officially opened, the Baltimore Ravens and Tyler Huntley agreed to a two-year deal worth up to $11 million. The move ensures continuity in the backup quarterback position behind franchise star Lamar Jackson.
Last season, Huntley led the Ravens to wins over two playoffs teams in the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers. Huntley proved that he is Baltimore's best safety net for Lamar Jackson, who has missed at least four games due to injury in three of the last five seasons.
Offensive Line Reinforcement with John Simpson
The Ravens addressed their offensive line needs by signing guard John Simpson. Simpson agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with the Ravens. It marks a return to Baltimore for Simpson, who left the team two years ago to sign with the New York Jets in free agency.
It's no surprise that Baltimore's first free agent signing from another team is a guard, as the Ravens have consistently prioritized building a strong offensive line to protect Jackson and support their run-heavy offensive scheme.
Secondary Addition: Chidobe Awuzie Returns
In a move to bolster the secondary, the Baltimore Ravens are reuniting with cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, who found a home in Baltimore last season, starting five games for the team. The 30-year-old veteran played for the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals and Tennessee Titans prior to joining the Ravens last season.
Other Notable Moves
The Ravens also added kicker Matt Gay on an undisclosed contract, providing stability to the special teams unit. Additionally, star quarterback Lamar Jackson agreed to restructure his deal in order to free up cap space for the Ravens, with the move freeing up $40 million of cap space for Baltimore this year.
The Maxx Crosby Saga
The Ravens' free agency period was marked by controversy when they backed out of what would have been the biggest trade in franchise history. The Baltimore Ravens were acquiring five-time Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders for first-round picks in 2026 and 2027, but the deal collapsed due to medical concerns discovered during Crosby's physical examination.
The failed trade sent shockwaves through the NFL, but Baltimore quickly pivoted to land Hendrickson, addressing their desperate need for pass-rush help. The Ravens had a desperate need for a pass rusher after having one of the NFL's worst units last year.
Looking Ahead
With these moves, the Ravens have addressed several key positions while maintaining financial flexibility for the future. The addition of Hendrickson gives defensive coordinator Jesse Minter a proven edge rusher who can win one-on-one matchups without requiring exotic blitz packages. The retention of Huntley provides insurance for Jackson, while Simpson strengthens an offensive line that has been a hallmark of Ravens football.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches on April 23, Baltimore will look to continue building its roster with the draft capital it retained after the Crosby trade fell through. The Ravens remain focused on competing in what promises to be another highly competitive AFC North division.
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