The Baltimore Ravens won two Super Bowls on the back of an aggressive defense. With the acquisition of defensive end Maxx Crosby, an ESPN analyst believes that feeling is back. Dan Orlovsky spoke about how the addition of Crosby helps the new staff in Baltimore.
On the field, he’s one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL. And off the field, he just fits Baltimore. When we were growing up, playing against Baltimore, you didn’t want to play that nasty defense.”
Five sacks led a team that prides itself on disruption, instilling fear in passing games. To his credit, Crosby does that. Four double-digit sack seasons in seven years in the NFL mean that he is becoming a factor. Additionally, his 164 quarterback hits and 226 pressures signify that the edge will find a way to the ball.
Swipe/Rip by Maxx Crosby. Great get off/rush angle as well. Shows off the motor for the sack! #PassRush #Raiders pic.twitter.com/XOHlotrjJd
— DLineVids (@dlinevids1) January 8, 2024
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Crosby fits Minter’s defense. He will play along the line in a five-man front. Crosby’s approach to rushing elevates his teammates. Orlovsky believes that, if everything aligns, Crosby could follow in the footsteps of impactful Ravens defenders from the past.
GettyRavens’ new pass rusher Maxx Crosby, during a 2025 game,
Looping Benefits Disruptive Front
As evidenced by this play, Crosby’s agility enables him to move around teammates, penetrate up the middle, and pressure the quarterback. Minter expects his linemen to be active and win individual matchups.
Rather than simply absorbing blocks, the new coach emphasizes motion. This pressure can force a running back to step up in pass protection, limiting the offensive options. If the Ravens loop the edge rusher and send another player behind him on a delay, it can further rush the quarterback’s decision.
GettyMaxx Crosby focuses during a 2025 game.
Roquan Smith Could See Another Dominant Season
Some may see Kyle Hamilton as the key to the Ravens’ defense. However, Smith serves as its heart and soul. With increased pressure up front, the veteran linebacker can anticipate checkdowns thrown off balance. Edge pressure and interior collapse benefit the defense, especially against play-action.
Regardless of the play’s design, an elite pass rusher disrupts opponents’ game plans. The most likely ways to counter Smith and Crosby are to use a sixth lineman or quick routes. An extra lineman may aid blocking but removes a skill player from the field, while quick passes invite cornerbacks to break on routes, increasing interception risk.
Packers don’t convert on 4th and inches. Shoutout to Roquan Smith pic.twitter.com/kHoQCCxHAH
— Dave (@davebftv) December 28, 2025
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The Burden Falls to Lamar Jackson
In the video, the ESPN host made an undisputed point. It is now bringing that nasty edge back to Baltimore. All in, absolutely, and it ups the ante, pressure-wise, on Lamar Jackson.”
Last season, the defense struggled to generate pressure, leading to longer drives. For example, the loss to the Bills illustrates this issue—the offense scored over 35 points, yet it was not enough for a win.
Does anybody remember that time Lamar Jackson dropped back left handed and faked out the entire Miami Dolphins defense? pic.twitter.com/qvLo40FvJW
— Nic Mason (@British_Raven19) March 9, 2026
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With improvements, Jackson should benefit from more possessions via forced punts and turnovers. As a result, he must quickly establish a rhythm and move the offense. New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, who worked under Ben Johnson, values scoring touchdowns rather than settling for field goals when possible.
Crosby’s addition represents the return of swagger and defensive intensity to the Ravens. The main question remains whether this revived identity, shaped around his impact, will translate into success on the field.
Ravens Trade for Maxx Crosby Signals the Return of a ‘Nasty’ Approach: Analyst