Detroit Lions' defensive powerhouse Aidan Hutchinson recently shared his thoughts on the tantalizing idea of teaming up with five-time Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby. "The idea of it is incredibly promising," Hutchinson remarked, hinting at the potential dream scenario of lining up alongside a player of Crosby's caliber. While he acknowledged the excitement, Hutchinson also noted the uncertainty surrounding such a move, especially given the team's current approach to edge rushers.
The buzz around Crosby's future with the Las Vegas Raiders has intensified, particularly after he reportedly expressed frustration over being sidelined for the last two games of the 2025 season due to a knee issue. New Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak has already had a brief meeting with the star, aiming to smooth things over.
Hutchinson and Crosby have exchanged messages on social media and crossed paths a few times, with Hutchinson praising Crosby's relentless drive and motivation, even when the Raiders haven't been at their best.
If the Lions were to acquire Crosby, it would create one of the most formidable defensive end duos in the league. Crosby, at 28, racked up 28 tackles for loss and 10 sacks in 2025, while Hutchinson hit a career-high 14.5 sacks after bouncing back from an injury-shortened 2024 season.
However, the logistics of bringing Crosby to Detroit are complicated by salary cap constraints. Crosby's hefty contract, with four years left on a $106.5 million extension, poses a significant challenge. The Lions are currently $9.6 million over the cap, and adding Crosby could hinder their ability to secure extensions for key players from their 2023 draft class, including talents like Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta.
While the prospect of pairing Hutchinson with Crosby is electrifying, the financial puzzle remains a significant hurdle for the Lions to overcome.