The Detroit Lions have turned their defense from a weakness into one of the most complete units in the NFL. Yet, despite significant progress and the emergence of Aidan Hutchinson as a premier pass rusher, Detroit still lacks a consistent threat on the opposite side of the line.
Now, as the NFL trade deadline approaches, one bold proposal suggests the Lions could make a massive splash — by targeting one of the league’s most dominant defenders.
Maxx Crosby Emerges as Possible Trade Target
According to Christian Romo of the Detroit Free Press, the Lions could set their sights on Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby, one of the NFL’s most feared edge rushers. Romo referenced a report from Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton, who floated the idea of Detroit landing Crosby in a blockbuster trade package that could include two first-round picks.
While Romo admitted that such a deal remains far from likely, he noted that this season has already featured several unexpected moves — including Micah Parsons being dealt from the Dallas Cowboys to the Green Bay Packers before the season began.
“It’s hard to say if the Lions would be willing to pay that price for Crosby, or if the Raiders would even consider moving him,” Romo explained. “But with the way this NFL season has gone, nothing can be ruled out.”
Raiders Reluctant to Trade Their Defensive Cornerstone
Reports indicate that Las Vegas has little interest in dealing Crosby — and other teams have already tried. Jay Glazer of Fox Sports revealed that Dallas inquired about both Crosby and Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals, but both attempts were rejected.
“The Cowboys have been exploring trade options,” Glazer said. “They reached out to the Raiders about Maxx Crosby — no deal. They called the Bengals about Hendrickson — same result. They’re searching for defensive help but haven’t had luck yet.”
Even if the Raiders were open to negotiations, Crosby himself has made it clear that he doesn’t want to leave Las Vegas. Grant Gordon of NFL.com reported that the Pro Bowl edge rusher recently met with team executives to confirm that neither side is interested in a trade.
“Despite the team’s struggles, Crosby has no desire to move on,” Gordon wrote. “The Raiders and Crosby have both agreed he’s not being shopped.”
Lions Exploring Other Options
If the Crosby dream fades, Detroit still has other potential paths. Hendrickson’s name has come up repeatedly, though Cincinnati has shown no willingness to part with its star.
Meanwhile, some insiders believe the Lions could look toward Miami, where the struggling Dolphins might be open to moving one of their two talented pass rushers — Bradley Chubb or Jaelan Phillips. Miami may be tempted to make a deal to acquire future draft capital as their playoff hopes continue to dim.
Regardless of which direction they choose, the Lions seem determined to strengthen their pass rush — a move that could be the final piece in their quest for a Super Bowl run.
