Las Vegas Raiders GM John Spytek was clear at the NFL Combine about Maxx Crosby's future with the team. When asked if Crosby would be a Raider in 2026, Spytek confidently responded, "I do, yes." He emphasized the importance of having elite players like Crosby, stating, "It’s hard to build a great team without elite players."
This might be disappointing for Detroit Lions fans, who've been eyeing Crosby as a potential addition. For the past couple of years, trade rumors have linked the All-Pro edge rusher to Detroit, making the latest comments a sobering moment for those hopes.
Crosby would be a perfect fit for the Lions on paper. Detroit has been searching for a strong partner for Aidan Hutchinson, and Crosby’s impressive track record, including double-digit sacks in three of the last four seasons, makes him an attractive option. His Michigan roots and love for the Lions only add to the allure.
Aidan Hutchinson himself has expressed that playing alongside Crosby would be a "dream scenario," though he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding such a move.
From a football standpoint, Crosby fits the Lions' needs perfectly. His power and relentless drive align with Detroit’s culture.
However, acquiring him would require significant resources. Las Vegas would likely demand a hefty price, starting with at least one first-round pick.
The Lions, not flush with draft capital, would face a tough decision. GM Brad Holmes has been bold in the past, but a trade for Crosby would be a major gamble on the team’s future.
Moreover, Crosby's recent three-year, $106.5 million extension complicates matters. While it’s a fair deal for his talent, the Lions have financial commitments to players like Hutchinson, who recently signed a four-year, $180 million extension. Upcoming contract decisions for other key players further strain the budget.
Detroit is already investing heavily in stars like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and others, making it difficult to fit Crosby’s contract.
While Crosby is a standout player at a crucial position, the financial and draft capital costs may be too steep for the Lions. It’s more likely they’ll address their edge rusher needs through the draft or by seeking more affordable options in free agency.
Though it might not be the splashy move some fans hoped for, it reflects the realities of managing a roster in today’s NFL salary cap era. And while trades can be unpredictable, Detroit may not be the landing spot for Crosby that fans envision.