The NFL trade deadline on November 5 is approaching, leaving the Detroit Lions with an opportunity to strengthen their roster for a Super Bowl push. One strategy the team might consider is acquiring an experienced pass rusher to fill in for Aidan Hutchinson.
Chris Licata of Athlon Sports recently compiled “dream” trade scenarios for various teams, including the Lions. The concept of acquiring a three-time Pro Bowl talent would certainly excite Detroit fans, though the likelihood of it happening is low.
The Las Vegas Raiders are having a rough season with a 2-7 record ahead of the trade deadline, fueling speculation about potential trades. One notable name in the trade rumor mill is elite pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
“Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis has insisted that his star pass rusher isn’t going anywhere,” Licata mentioned in his November 3 report. “But words are easy. A short-term trade for Za’Darius Smith could make sense for the Lions before the deadline on Tuesday.
“However, this is about preparing for 2025 and beyond. Even when Hutchinson returns next season, the depth behind him remains an issue.”
Crosby is currently under a four-year, $94 million contract that extends through the 2026 season. While ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated that the Raiders have no plans to trade Crosby, the question remains: What would it take for the Lions to change their minds?
According to Athlon Sports, former Atlanta Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff suggested Crosby’s trade value could be at least two future first-round picks and potentially a third-round pick as well.
Would the Lions be willing to make such a significant offer to lure Crosby? With Hutchinson back in the lineup, a tandem featuring both him and Crosby would form an imposing pass-rushing duo.
