The only trade the Lions could make to take their defense to the next level
Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions are in an excellent position, 4-1 and leading the NFC North rankings.
However, Holmes may be eager to make a move before the fast-approaching October 31 NFL trade deadline to elevate the Lions from decent to great (and possibly even Super Bowl contender).
If Holmes and Detroit’s front management choose to go for the fences, I’d direct my attention to Las Vegas Raiders EDGE Maxx Crosby.
Through five games, the Raiders are 2-3 and third in the AFC West, with the lowly Denver Broncos being the only team they clearly outperform in their own division. That doesn’t say much for the Mark Davis-led franchise.
As the trade deadline approaches, there is growing suspicion that Las Vegas will sell. And, if the organization decided to completely dismantle the team, Crosby would surely be one of the most valuable trade assets.
Crosby, who is still only 26 years old, is in the middle of a four-year, $94 million contract that he signed in March 2022. So far, the Eastern Michigan product has shown to be well worth the price.
Crosby has recorded an astounding 17.5 sacks, 43 total QB hits, and 30 tackles for loss since signing the agreement.
Just a season ago, “Mad Maxx” played a complete season of games and set career highs in sacks (12.5), tackles for loss (22) and quarterback hits (36).
The two-time Pro Bowler is the real deal and would certainly elevate the Lions’ pass-rushing squad to new heights. He’d form a dangerous pass-rushing pair with teammate EDGE Aidan Hutchinson that might compete with the league’s finest defensive end tandems today.
Most importantly, Crosby would immediately improve Detroit’s chances of defeating the San Francisco 49ers and the reigning NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, who are widely regarded as the two greatest teams in the NFC at the moment.
Now, getting Crosby would be costly for the Lions. To land Crosby, Holmes & Co. would have to trade up at least a 2024 first-round selection or a first-round pick and a young, developmental asset, such as James Houston.
Any way you look at it, I feel it would be worthwhile for Detroit to trade the aforementioned premium assets in order to get a genuinely game-changing talent like Crosby.
The Lions – yes, the once-dormant Lions – are built to win right now, and Crosby could easily propel them over the top and put them on the same playing field as the Eagles and 49ers.
That is why, if the opportunity to trade for Crosby arose, I would jump at it without hesitation.