Maxx Crosby to Detroit? Why the Lions Should Seriously Consider Going All-In
The Lions entered the 2025 season with high expectations-and understandably so. After back-to-back NFC North titles, Detroit was riding a wave of momentum.
But a 9-8 finish and a missed playoff berth brought that momentum to a screeching halt. Now, as the 2026 offseason kicks into gear, fans are calling for the front office to make a bold move.
And there’s one name that keeps coming up: Maxx Crosby.
Crosby, a Michigan native and Eastern Michigan product, has long been a dream target for Lions fans. And with rumors swirling that his time in Las Vegas may be coming to an end after a tumultuous season for the Raiders, the stars may finally be aligning for a homecoming.
Let’s be clear-adding Crosby wouldn’t just be a feel-good story. It would be a game-changer for a Lions defense that needs to take the next step if Detroit wants to make good on its Super Bowl aspirations.
A Potential Crosby-Hutchinson Duo? That’s Nightmare Fuel for Offenses
Crosby is one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the league. Pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson would give the Lions a pass-rushing tandem that could go toe-to-toe with any in the NFL. Hutchinson has been carrying a heavy load off the edge, and while he’s more than capable, the presence of another elite threat would free him up to be even more dangerous.
This isn’t just about sacks-it’s about collapsing pockets, forcing bad throws, and dictating the tempo of games. The Lions defense took strides last season, but if they want to be in the conversation with the league’s elite units, adding another star in the trenches is the most direct path.
What Would It Take to Get Crosby?
This is where things get real. Crosby isn’t going to come cheap. On a recent episode of Yahoo Sports Daily, Jay Glazer noted that Crosby’s time with the Raiders appears to be nearing its end-and that any team looking to acquire him should be ready to pay a steep price.
For context, when the Packers traded for Micah Parsons, they gave up two first-round picks and veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark. Glazer suggested it would take even more to pry Crosby away from Vegas.
That’s a heavy haul. But the question the Lions have to ask themselves is: Is it worth it?
If Detroit believes it has a championship-caliber roster-and there’s plenty of reason to think it does-then now is the time to act like it. Yes, trading away multiple first-rounders is risky. But so is standing pat while other contenders get better.
The Time Is Now
General manager Brad Holmes has built a foundation that’s both young and competitive. But windows in the NFL don’t stay open forever. The Lions have a quarterback they believe in, a strong offensive line, and a defense that’s one piece away from being truly dangerous.
Crosby could be that piece.
Throughout NFL history, some of the most dominant teams-those that made deep playoff runs and hoisted the Lombardi Trophy-were built around elite defensive lines. The 2007 Giants.
The 2013 Seahawks. The 2015 Broncos.
They all had one thing in common: they could get after the quarterback without blitzing. That’s the kind of impact Crosby could have in Detroit.
And let’s not forget the intangible factor. Crosby’s Michigan roots, his relentless motor, and his leadership would resonate in a locker room that’s already built on grit and accountability. He fits the Lions’ culture-and he fits their needs.
Final Thoughts
The Lions are close. The pieces are in place. But in a league where the margin between good and great is razor-thin, sometimes it takes one bold move to make the leap.
Trading for Maxx Crosby would be bold. It would be expensive. But it could also be the move that turns this team from a playoff hopeful into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Detroit has waited long enough. If the opportunity is there, it’s time to go get him.