Pittsburgh Steelers Suddenly Lead the Race for Maxx Crosby After Trade Collapse with Ravens – And Crosby’s Move Has Set Steelers Nation Ablaze

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to add experience to their relatively young edge rusher group as they begin contract negotiations with veteran outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy, according to sources from Adam Schefter of ESPN. After losing Rashan Gary in a trade and letting Kingsley Enagbare walk in free agency, the Steelers are facing depth issues at the pass rusher position. Lukas Van Ness is expected to take on a bigger role, while Barryn Sorrell and Collin Oliver will also see increased opportunities. However, the team still needs an experienced player to help mentor and set an example for the younger group. Van Noy, 35, is currently a free agent after two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. During that time, he recorded 23.5 sacks and 91 tackles, proving he still has the ability to create pressure on opposing offenses even as he enters the twilight of his career. With 12 years of NFL experience, Van Noy is one of the most versatile and intelligent linebackers in the league. He has played a total of 173 games, recording 57 sacks, 561 tackles, 14 forced fumbles, and contributed to two Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots (Super Bowl LI and LIII). In 2024, he was selected to the Pro Bowl following an impressive performance with the Ravens. Sources say both parties are serious about the negotiations. The Steelers value Van Noy’s experience and mentorship role, while he sees Pittsburgh as a competitive environment where he can contribute in what may be his final season in the league. “Pittsburgh is where winning is always expected,” Van Noy said in recent conversations, according to sources close to the negotiations. “I still believe I have enough in the tank, and I want to go to a place where I can make impactful plays and help a group of young players develop.” “Where winning is always expected every season is Pittsburgh,” Van Noy shared in recent conversations, according to sources. “I still believe I have enough in the tank, and I want to go to a place where I can make impactful plays and help young players grow. Pittsburgh is that place.” If an agreement is reached — likely a short-term deal with incentives — it would be a smart move to bolster depth without significantly impacting the budget. This move could turn out to be one of the smartest veteran additions of the offseason, helping to strengthen the Steelers' defense for the 2026 season.