The Detroit Lions find themselves in need of additional defensive talent following a significant injury to defensive end Aidan Hutchinson during Week 6.

Hutchinson, a star player for the team, suffered a broken tibia in the Lions’ 47-9 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on October 13 in Texas.

In light of this setback, analysts are evaluating potential players who could enhance the Lions’ defensive line.

Among the names being discussed is Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders.

A native of Lapeer, Michigan, Crosby played college football at Eastern Michigan, making him a fan favorite among Lions supporters.

In a feature for Sporting News on October 14, NFL writer Teddy Ricketson included Crosby in his list of pass-rushers who could step in for Hutchinson.

Ricketson noted that the Raiders’ success under interim coach Antonio Pierce has not translated into the current season, leading to speculation about Crosby’s future.

Ricketson highlighted the Raiders’ disappointing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which ended with a score of 32-13, as a contributing factor to Crosby’s frustration.

He reported that Crosby left the field late in that game and had a heated exchange with a coach.

Ricketson suggested that while this behavior might be typical for Crosby, it also indicates a desire for a new beginning. Given the Raiders’ current situation, he believes they should consider trading Crosby to maximize his value.

Ricketson also emphasized that, due to Crosby’s impressive performance and his age of 27, he could command a first-round pick in a trade.

While this might be a steep price for the Lions, he noted that if they could make the financials work, a defensive line featuring Hutchinson on one side and Crosby on the other would be a dream scenario for Lions fans.

Christian Booher from Sports Illustrated supports the notion that bringing Crosby to Detroit would not be an inexpensive endeavor.

In his October 14 article, Booher pointed out that Crosby is under contract until 2026, meaning that acquiring him would significantly impact the Lions’ salary cap.

He noted that Crosby is owed approximately $22.236 million next season and $18.84 million the following year, adding financial burdens on top of whatever trade assets the Lions would need to relinquish.

Mike Payton of A to Z Sports also agrees that acquiring Crosby would come at a significant cost.

In his October 13 piece, he stated that a first-round pick would almost certainly need to be included in any trade offer.

He expressed skepticism that the Lions could secure anything better than a second-round pick in return, suggesting that the structure of the deal would resemble that of previous high-profile trades.

It is important to note that Crosby has publicly expressed his desire to remain with the Raiders.

As recently as October 6, he mentioned his commitment to the team, even highlighting his loyalty with a Raiders tattoo.

Additionally, on October 16, Raiders owner Mark Davis reiterated that a trade involving Crosby is “just not happening,” further complicating the scenario for potential suitors like the Lions.

Despite these statements, Crosby conveyed a sense of determination when speaking to reporters on October 16, stating, “Wherever I’m going to be…I’m going to be here to win.”

This comment could suggest he remains open to a change, even if he is currently committed to the Raiders

In summary, the Lions’ need for defensive reinforcements has sparked discussions about the possibility of trading for Maxx Crosby, especially after Hutchinson’s injury.

While the idea of adding an elite player like Crosby is appealing, the financial and strategic implications make such a move complex.

With both the Raiders’ management and Crosby expressing intentions to stay put, the situation remains uncertain.

However, if the Lions can navigate the challenges, pairing Crosby with Hutchinson could create a formidable defensive line that Lions fans have long hoped for.