The Detroit Lions are determined to secure their first Super Bowl victory, and with the recent injury to star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, they might need to take a significant step.
Cory Woodroof from For The Win predicts that the Lions will pursue a major trade for Las Vegas Raiders pass-rusher Maxx Crosby before the NFL trade deadline.
This potential move could rank among the most impactful trades in recent NFL history, with the Lions reportedly ready to offer a “Godfather-style” deal that includes two first-round draft picks.
The Need for Maxx Crosby
Hutchinson’s season-ending injury has severely impacted the Lions’ defense.
As one of the league’s top pass rushers and a crucial defensive leader, his absence creates a significant void that could hinder Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations.
To mitigate this loss, Woodroof anticipates that the Lions will make a bold attempt to acquire Crosby, recognized as one of the NFL’s premier defensive players.
Crosby has proven to be a game-changer for the Raiders, and adding him to Detroit’s lineup would elevate their defense to elite status.
Pairing Crosby with a healthy Hutchinson in the future could establish one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the league.
What It Would Take to Acquire Crosby
As noted by Woodroof, securing a player of Crosby’s caliber will come at a steep cost.
The Lions may need to relinquish two first-round picks to finalize the trade.
While this is a significant investment, for a team poised to compete for a Super Bowl, it might be a worthwhile risk.
General manager Brad Holmes has demonstrated a readiness to make bold decisions previously, and with the Lions currently holding a 5-1 record, this represents a critical opportunity.
Maxx Crosby’s Potential Impact on Detroit
If acquired, Maxx Crosby would have an immediate and profound effect on the Lions’ defense.
Known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities, Crosby consistently disrupts opposing quarterbacks.
In the first seven weeks of the season, he has accumulated an impressive tally of sacks and quarterback pressures, reinforcing his status as one of the most sought-after defensive talents in the league.
Integrating Crosby into a defense that already features playmakers like Brian Branch and Alim McNeill would transform the Lions into a formidable opponent in the latter part of the season.
What was once viewed as a weakness in their defensive front could evolve into a nightmare for rival offenses.
Is a Trade Likely?
Although this trade remains a prediction from Woodroof, the Detroit Lions have shown a proactive approach in building a Super Bowl-contending team.
With Hutchinson out of action, the urgency to make a significant move has increased.
As the trade deadline approaches, Holmes might feel compelled to make a bold acquisition that could elevate the Lions’ chances.
On the flip side, the Raiders are currently in a rebuilding phase, making the idea of accumulating draft picks an appealing option for them.
If the Lions are prepared to part with two first-round selections, it could be enough to persuade Las Vegas to trade Crosby.
The prospect of Maxx Crosby joining the Detroit Lions may appear to be an ideal scenario for fans, but it is a possibility that could materialize.
If the Lions are serious about making a deep playoff run this year, acquiring Crosby would be a transformative move.
Though it represents a gamble, the NFL often requires teams to take calculated risks to achieve success.