After falling short of their Super Bowl hopes in 2024, the Detroit Lions are focused on retooling their roster for the 2025 season. While the offense has shown promise, strengthening the defense, particularly the pass rush, has become a top priority. Aidan Hutchinson will return from injury, but the Lions still need depth on their defensive line.
Detroit Lions Seek Maxx Crosby, Lose Hendon Hooker in Hypothetical Trade
One of the major concerns for Detroit is the lack of a long-term solution opposite Hutchinson. Although Za’Darius Smith is under contract, his age (32) and uncertain future with the team suggest that the Lions need to find a dynamic edge rusher who can consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
A hypothetical trade proposed by Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests a major move involving the Las Vegas Raiders. In exchange for star defensive end Maxx Crosby, the Lions would give up a significant package: two first-round picks and quarterback Hendon Hooker. The details of the proposed trade are as follows:
- Detroit Lions receive: EDGE Maxx Crosby, 2025 fifth-round pick (No. 144 overall)
- Las Vegas Raiders receive: 2025 first-round pick (No. 28 overall), 2026 first-round pick, QB Hendon Hooker
Maxx Crosby Could Transform the Lions’ Defense
If this deal went through, it would instantly push the Lions into “win-now” mode, acquiring one of the NFL’s top pass rushers. Crosby, a four-time Pro Bowler, would form a fearsome tandem with Hutchinson, giving the Lions one of the league’s top defensive line duos. Adding Crosby would significantly strengthen the defense and give new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard a strong foundation heading into the 2025 season.
The Cost: Two First-Round Picks and Hendon Hooker
Though the trade price is hefty — including two first-round picks and a promising quarterback in Hooker — it could make Detroit a Super Bowl contender. Crosby, a Michigan native and former Eastern Michigan standout, might be excited to return home and play for a contender. Although Crosby has expressed dissatisfaction with the Raiders’ struggles, his future could lie in Detroit, where the Lions offer a chance for success.
Raiders’ Perspective: Long-Term Benefit in Crosby Trade
For the Raiders, receiving two first-round picks for Crosby would be a substantial return, particularly with Hooker possibly becoming a long-term solution at quarterback. The Raiders have faced quarterback instability for years, and Hooker could become a central piece in their rebuild.
Will Crosby Leave Las Vegas?
While the possibility of Crosby joining the Lions is enticing, it’s uncertain whether the Raiders would be open to trading him. However, if the Lions can pull off such a deal, it could greatly enhance their defense and bring them closer to their Super Bowl aspirations.
