According to reporting from Tony Pauline, the Bengals explored sending the No. 10 overall pick to Las Vegas for Crosby, but they were unwilling to match the Ravens’ initial price, which included two first-round picks.
Pauline noted that the Bengals discussed trading the 10th pick for Crosby long before they eventually dealt the same selection to the New York Giants for Dexter Lawrence, signaling a preference for a proven defender over the draft path.
After Crosby failed the physical, Baltimore quickly backed out of the deal, and Crosby returned to the Raiders, who have continued to field trade interest but at a high asking price.
In the interim, Baltimore pivoted to adding former Giants interior lineman Dexter Lawrence’s new role after the Crosby stalemate, though the move highlighted a shift in how the Ravens and Bengals addressed their defensive line needs.
Cincinnati ultimately moved on by acquiring Dexter Lawrence, while Crosby’s contract status left the Bengals to address edge-rushing needs through development, such as with players like Shemar Stewart, and through the upcoming draft.
