By Blessing 
Analyst Rekindles Talk of Potential Maxx Crosby Trade to the Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are eyeing a significant move this offseason as they look to push closer to their Super Bowl ambitions. Among the buzzworthy ideas circulating is a trade for Las Vegas Raiders star pass rusher Maxx Crosby—an idea that, while having faded recently, has once again picked up steam thanks to a Sports Illustrated analyst.
Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated believes that Crosby should still be on Detroit’s radar. In a piece outlining one key offseason move for each NFC North team, Manzano made the case that the Lions should at least explore the possibility of bringing Crosby back to his home state.
“It’s tough to envision new Las Vegas Raiders coach Pete Carroll giving up Maxx Crosby, but the Lions should at least make the call in hopes of pairing Aidan Hutchinson with one of the best edge rushers in the NFL,” Manzano wrote.
The idea of Crosby returning to Michigan to lead a defensive resurgence has been enticing for both fans and media alike. The buzz initially started last season but has cooled off—until now.
A Homegrown Star to Boost Detroit’s Defense?
The appeal is obvious. Crosby, a Michigan native, would not only bolster Detroit’s pass rush but could also serve as a hometown hero who takes the Lions’ defense to the next level. With 59.5 career sacks, he would bring much-needed star power to a defensive line that struggled when it mattered most.
The Lions’ defense was exposed in the divisional round of the playoffs, with a poor showing against the Washington Commanders cutting their postseason run short. Adding Crosby could change that narrative. His presence would buy time for Aidan Hutchinson, who’s recovering from a severe leg injury, and give the Lions one of the most dangerous pass-rushing duos in the NFL.
Manzano noted another compelling reason for Detroit to pursue Crosby: his frustration with losing in Las Vegas.
“Crosby, a Michigan native, has said multiple times he’s tired of losing and the Raiders aren’t close to being a winning organization, especially without a franchise quarterback. Instead of wasting another prime year with Crosby, Las Vegas should be able to get a few valuable draft picks from Detroit, which needs to swing big to make the most of its Super Bowl window,” he explained.
The Reality Check: Is a Crosby Trade Really Feasible?
While the thought of Crosby in Honolulu blue is exciting, the reality is far less optimistic. The biggest obstacle? The Raiders’ willingness—or lack thereof—to trade him.
Maxx Crosby is the face of the Raiders’ franchise. With Pete Carroll now at the helm in Las Vegas, it seems unlikely the 73-year-old coach signed on for a complete rebuild that would start by trading away his best defensive player. Manzano himself acknowledged this point, highlighting the slim chances that Carroll would part ways with such a crucial cornerstone.
Additionally, while Crosby’s frustration with losing has been well-documented, he hasn’t publicly requested a trade. This is a key difference when compared to players like Myles Garrett. Garrett, despite Cleveland’s insistence on keeping him, could potentially force their hand due to his influence and standing. If Garrett were to push for a move, it would likely carry more weight than any quiet frustrations Crosby might harbor.
Has the Crosby Ship Sailed for Detroit?
For all the enthusiasm surrounding a potential Crosby trade, the reality remains that it’s more of a fantasy than a feasible plan. The Lions certainly need a star addition on defense to take the next step, but all signs suggest that the Crosby ship may have sailed.
Unless something dramatically shifts in Las Vegas—such as Crosby openly demanding a move—the Lions’ front office would be wise to explore more realistic options. As much as analysts like Manzano may continue to revive the conversation, Detroit’s focus should likely be elsewhere.
Adding Crosby would undeniably boost the Lions’ defense and Super Bowl hopes. But given the current landscape, it’s a long shot that’s more dream than reality.