By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s deep pockets and defensive depth spark intrigue in a blockbuster mock trade scenario.
Detroit’s Defensive Core Faces a Tempting “What If”
The Detroit Lions have built their defensive foundation on patience, player development, and smart investments — not splashy trades. Yet, a new mock trade scenario featuring All-Pro edge rusher Maxx Crosby has fans and analysts buzzing about what could happen if Detroit decided to break character.
With Aidan Hutchinson healthy again after his 2024 season-ending injury and Marcus Davenport projected to return later this year, the Lions’ pass rush already looks formidable. Add in Alim McNeill’s return and the emergence of Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Detroit appears well-stocked up front.
Still, Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton floated a hypothetical deal that would instantly supercharge Detroit’s defense — and, as he notes, potentially snatch Crosby right out from under the Cowboys’ radar.
The Hypothetical Trade That Could Reshape Detroit’s Defense
In Moton’s mock proposal, the Lions would acquire Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for a hefty package:
- 2026 1st-round pick
- 2026 4th-round pick
- 2027 1st-round pick
- 2027 5th-round pick
- DT Roy Lopez
It’s a steep price for a player still fighting through lingering injuries, but as Moton points out, Detroit has the cap flexibility to make it work — for now.
“The Lions have $25.1 million in cap space,” Moton explained. “They will likely sign Hutchinson to a massive extension in the near future, but the front office can structure his new deal to incorporate Crosby’s contract in the short term, though the budget will get tight in the years to come.”
From a financial standpoint, the math checks out. Crosby’s contract carries no dead money beyond 2026, aligning perfectly with the end of Hutchinson’s rookie deal. “In 2027,” Moton adds, “the Lions can start to pay Hutchinson his new money and restructure Crosby’s contract to make it all work under the salary cap.”
High Risk, High Reward — and a Whole Lot of Temptation
Even with the numbers making sense, the C+ trade grade Moton assigned feels appropriate. Crosby, despite tallying four sacks this season, hasn’t been at full health for some time, and surrendering multiple high draft picks plus a defensive tackle like Lopez could compromise Detroit’s long-term roster balance.
Still, the temptation is there. Bringing Crosby — a Michigan native — home to join forces with Hutchinson could make Detroit’s defensive line one of the league’s most feared. More importantly, it would block NFC rivals like the Cowboys or Eagles from strengthening their own pass rush units.
ESPN’s Trey Wingo even hinted that Dallas had sniffed around a Crosby deal, though NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero later poured cold water on the rumor. If the Cowboys were indeed interested, Detroit jumping into the mix would not only shake up trade chatter — it would break hearts in Dallas.
Brad Holmes’ DNA Says “No,” But the Future Always Tempts
For now, this trade remains firmly in the “fantasy” category. General manager Brad Holmes has earned his reputation by avoiding impulse moves and prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term splashes.
Crosby’s talent is undeniable, and the idea of him wreaking havoc alongside Hutchinson is tantalizing. But as the Lions continue their climb toward sustained contender status, one thing is clear: Detroit doesn’t need to chase stars — they’re already building them.
Still, it’s fun to imagine what could happen if the Lions ever decided to go all-in and steal Maxx Crosby right out from under the Cowboys’ dreams.