Ravens Sign Hendrickson After Crosby Trade Fails

The Baltimore Ravens signed pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million contract, including $60 million guaranteed, on Friday, March 15, 2024, in Owings Mills, Maryland. This acquisition occurred less than 24 hours after the team withdrew from a trade for Las Vegas Raiders pass-rusher Maxx Crosby due to medical concerns identified during Crosby's physical.

Hendrickson, known for his fourth-quarter performance, is expected to address the Ravens' issue of blowing 16 leads in the final five minutes of games over the past five seasons.

Hendrickson's signing provides the Ravens with a significant pass-rushing asset. Since 2021, he ranks fourth in the NFL with 61 sacks, trailing Myles Garrett (83), T.J. Watt (65.5), and Micah Parsons (65). In contrast, the Ravens' most productive edge rusher during the same period, Kyle Van Noy, recorded 23.5 sacks. Hendrickson's ability to "finish games" was a key factor in the Ravens' decision, as highlighted by coach Jesse Minter.

The Ravens had been in discussions with Hendrickson prior to the attempted Crosby trade. General Manager Eric DeCosta indicated that there was a possibility of both players joining the team. Hendrickson expressed respect for Crosby and acknowledged the potential of playing alongside him, but ultimately committed to the Ravens, citing the team's winning standard and his preference for the AFC North's "gritty football" style.