Big moves in the NFL often bring big expectations. That reality hit the Baltimore Ravens this week after the team pulled off one of the offseason’s most dramatic trades, acquiring star pass rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. The move immediately sparked debate about what it means for quarterback Lamar Jackson, and whether the time has finally come for Baltimore to deliver a championship.
The conversation intensified during an episode of ESPN‘s morning show Get Up, where analyst Dan Orlovsky argued that the Ravens‘ aggressive move signals an “all-in” approach.
Baltimore already had one of the league’s most dynamic offenses behind Jackson, a two-time MVP who has been among the NFL‘s most electrifying players since entering the league in 2018.
Adding Crosby – a five-time Pro Bowl defensive end – strengthens a defense that could now rank among the NFL‘s elite.
For Orlovsky, that combination leaves little room for excuses: “I love Lamar. There ain’t no more excuses now. This is all in,” Orlovsky said on the show.
He later shared the clip on social media, doubling down on his message, saying: “Gotta get it done. It’s been that way, it’s even greater now.”
Jackson didn’t ignore the comments. Instead, the Ravens quarterback responded directly to Orlovsky in the replies, pushing back on the idea that he has ever relied on excuses during his career.
“Dan there has never been excuses for Lamar though,” Jackson clapped back.
The exchange remained respectful, with Orlovsky acknowledging Jackson‘s point while still encouraging the star quarterback to capture his first championship.
“You’re right… not needed though… Go get ya one,” Orlovsky replied.
The interaction quickly circulated across NFL media, highlighting both the pressure surrounding Jackson and the expectations that now come with Baltimore‘s upgraded roster.
Crosby arrival puts additional pressure on Jackson
Crosby arrives in Baltimore as one of the league’s most disruptive defensive players.
Known for relentless pass rushing and high motor, he has consistently ranked among the NFL‘s leaders in quarterback pressures and sacks.
Adding a defender of his caliber could transform the Ravens‘ defensive identity, potentially giving the team the balance needed for a deep postseason run.
The move also signals a clear message from the Ravens‘ front office: the franchise believes its championship window is open right now.
Despite Jackson‘s remarkable regular-season success, the one achievement missing from his résumé is a Super Bowl victory.
The quarterback has already won multiple MVP awards and revolutionized the position with his dual-threat style. However, postseason success has been harder to sustain.
Last season highlighted those challenges. Baltimore finished outside the playoff picture after Jackson dealt with multiple injuries that limited him to 13 starts.
His statistical production also dipped during the 2025 campaign, adding to concerns among fans about durability. Those setbacks have only intensified scrutiny around the franchise’s long-term championship ambitions.
Going for glory
The Ravens‘ offseason strategy suggests the organization believes the roster is close to championship level.
If Crosby strengthens the defense as expected and Jackson returns fully healthy, Baltimore could quickly re-emerge as one of the most dangerous teams in the National Football League.
But the underlying question remains unchanged: can Jackson lead the Ravens to their first Super Bowl appearance of his era?
With a strengthened defense and renewed expectations, the upcoming season may provide the clearest answer yet.
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