The Detroit Lions have emerged as a top destination in the NFL for talented players who prioritize winning, placing them in a favorable position to find a solid replacement for injured defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.
However, with the November 5 trade deadline approaching, players don’t enjoy the same flexibility to switch teams as they do in the offseason. For instance, Maxx Crosby, a standout edge rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders and a Michigan native, can’t simply decide to join the Lions.
Nonetheless, Detroit could reach out to Las Vegas with a substantial trade offer to take advantage of their current championship window, as suggested by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on October 16.
“Is it worth reaching out to the Raiders about Maxx Crosby, considering Las Vegas’ 2-4 start?” Fowler wrote. “I doubt they would let him go, but it’s worth inquiring.” Detroit can certainly make the call, but if they want the Raiders to take them seriously, they may need to present a substantial offer that signals their commitment to making a deal.
FanDuel’s official X account suggested an example on Wednesday: “The Lions bring Maxx Crosby home. The Raiders get TWO 1st-round picks.” The question posed was whether Detroit and Las Vegas should pursue this trade following Aidan Hutchinson’s injury.
Crosby, who hails from just an hour outside Detroit, is currently signed to a four-year contract worth $94 million that extends through 2026. He has been a Pro Bowler for the past three seasons and earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in both 2021 and 2023.
Over his six-year career, Crosby has accumulated 97 tackles for loss and 57.5 sacks in 88 games, including 82 starts. He currently leads the league with 9 tackles for loss—having led this category for the past two seasons—and has recorded 5.5 sacks, even after missing one game due to injury.
