NFL Teams Increasingly Trade Multiple First-Round Picks for Elite Players

NFL teams are demonstrating a growing willingness to trade two first-round draft picks for elite players, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. This trend, once rare, has seen a notable increase in recent months, signaling a shift in team-building strategies.

The Rising Cost of Elite Talent

Historically, trading two first-round picks for a player was uncommon, with fewer than 20 such deals occurring over the past 40 years. However, three such trades have transpired in the last six and a half months, all involving highly sought-after defensive players. This suggests a league-wide prioritization of acquiring impact defenders.

Recent High-Profile Trade: Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens

The most recent example of this trend is the trade of five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens acquired the 28-year-aged star in exchange for two first-round picks, according to sources familiar with the deal [NBC Los Angeles]. The trade cannot be officially announced until the league’s new year begins.

Defensive Dominance in Recent Super Bowls

The increasing value placed on defensive talent is likely influenced by the outcomes of recent Super Bowls. Both of the last two Super Bowls were decided by superior defensive performances. The Seattle Seahawks sacked Drake Maye six times in their victory over the New England Patriots, and the Philadelphia Eagles achieved a similar feat with six sacks against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs [NBC Los Angeles].

Impact on the Baltimore Ravens

Adding Crosby is expected to significantly bolster the Ravens’ defense, which recorded just 30 sacks in 2025, ranking them 28th in the NFL. The Ravens, led by two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, have consistently fallen short in the playoffs despite regular season success, and Crosby is anticipated to provide a crucial upgrade under new coach Jesse Minter.

Other Recent Trades

While the focus has been on NFL trades, other sports leagues have also seen recent player movement involving draft picks. The Nashville Predators acquired a second-round draft pick in 2028 from Minnesota in exchange for forward Michael McCarron [Nashville Predators Facebook]. In the NBA, the Miami Heat received a second-round pick from the Charlotte Hornets related to a previous trade involving Terry Rozier [NBA.com].