Raiders Shock NFL: Maxx Crosby to Ravens? Geno Smith Cut! What’s Next for Joe Mixon?

The NFL free agency period is just around the corner, and as teams prepare for the legal tampering period beginning on March 9 at 12 p.m. ET, the league’s news cycle continues to heat up. Major trades and player releases have already set the stage for what promises to be a transformative offseason.

One of the biggest headlines emerging from the 2026 NFL Combine is the Las Vegas Raiders' reported trade of star defensive end Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens. In exchange, the Raiders will receive Baltimore’s first-round picks in both the 2026 and 2027 NFL Drafts. This move highlights the Raiders' strategy to bolster their future while parting with a player who had been a key defensive asset.

In a surprising turn of events, the Raiders are also expected to release quarterback Geno Smith after just one season. This move will save the team approximately $8 million against the salary cap, although they will take on $18.5 million in dead money. Smith’s departure indicates a shift in the Raiders' quarterback strategy as they look toward the upcoming draft and free agency.

Meanwhile, the Houston Texans have taken significant steps to reshape their roster as well. Veteran running back Joe Mixon has been released at his request, following a season lost to a foot injury. This decision will save the Texans another $8 million against their salary cap. Additionally, earlier this week, the Texans acquired running back David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks, further indicating their commitment to revamping their backfield.

Other notable players reportedly on the chopping block include Stefon Diggs of the New England Patriots, Kyler Murray from the Arizona Cardinals, and veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave from the Minnesota Vikings. The Washington Commanders are also set to release cornerback Marshon Lattimore.

The Kansas City Chiefs have made waves as well, trading All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for the 29th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, plus additional later-round picks. This move signals a potential reevaluation of the Chiefs' defensive strategy moving forward.

In a significant player exchange, the Chicago Bears are reportedly trading wide receiver D.J. Moore to the Buffalo Bills for a 2026 second-round draft pick, among other assets. This trade aligns with the Bills' aim to enhance their receiving corps, especially after a season where Moore experienced career lows in both catches and receiving yards.

As teams continue to make moves leading up to the start of free agency, the ramifications will be felt across the league. The Minnesota Vikings recently restructured the contracts of players including Justin Jefferson and Christian Darrisaw, freeing up to $38 million in cap space. This strategic maneuvering could set the stage for significant acquisitions in the market.

Interestingly, the Buffalo Bills have also been active, recently announcing the release of safety Taylor Rapp after he started 24 games over the past three seasons. Meanwhile, their recent trades, including acquiring Moore, reflect a shift toward strengthening their offense for the upcoming season.

As we head into this pivotal phase of the NFL season, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring these trades and releases. Teams are not only reconfiguring their rosters but also positioning themselves for a competitive edge in the rapidly approaching season. With the legal tampering period just days away, expect further developments as teams finalize their strategies for success.

For ongoing updates, follow Yahoo Sports for the latest news, reports, and rumors as the league gears up for another exciting free agency period.