As the NFL offseason unfolds for the Las Vegas Raiders, the team continues to reshape its coaching staff under new head coach Klint Kubiak, aiming to boost its prospects for the 2026 season. Amid these changes, Maxx Crosby remains at the center of swirling trade rumors, despite his efforts to quell talk of a possible move. Interest in where Crosby might be traded, if at all, has only intensified as teams across the league weigh their options ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Possible Trade Scenario: Raiders Consider Sending Crosby to Detroit
A notable trade proposal suggests sending Maxx Crosby back to Michigan, joining the Detroit Lions, where Crosby began his football journey. This idea was outlined by Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report, who envisioned a deal in which the Lions acquire Crosby while the Raiders receive multiple assets. In this scenario, the Raiders would gain a 2026 first-round pick (No. 17), a 2027 second-round selection, and cornerback Terrion Arnold.
While this package might appear modest compared to lofty expectations for a franchise cornerstone like Crosby, the trade could offer mutual benefits. The Raiders would update their secondary and add valuable draft capital to rebuild or reinforce other positions, whereas the Lions would accelerate their push to contend.
The Lions make a lot of sense as a team that has lost momentum as a contender, though. Dan Campbell’s group seemed to fade from the spotlight as the year went on.
Adding Crosby alongside the Lions’ existing defensive talent would bring renewed attention to the team’s defensive line.
Pairing Crosby with Aidan Hutchinson puts them right back in that spotlight. It would finally give Crosby a strong bookend while putting the Lions right back in the NFC conversation.
This move would signal a clear “win-now” approach for Detroit, likely enticing the franchise to pursue Crosby aggressively. Still, the Raiders may consider more lucrative offers or counteroffers before making any decisions.
Derek Carr Offers His Take on Trade Rumors Surrounding Crosby
Amid the speculation, former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr, who shared the field with Maxx Crosby, addressed the ongoing trade rumors during the Home Grown podcast alongside his brother, David Carr. When asked whether the Raiders should trade Crosby, Carr gave a firm and concise response:
No. Period. Next,
This remark suggests that at least some voices within the Raiders’ circle remain committed to maintaining Crosby on the roster. Nonetheless, as the 2026 draft approaches, the organization may find itself weighing trade offers seriously if they present substantial value.
Implications of a Potential Trade for Both Teams
If Maxx Crosby were to be traded, it would mark a significant shift for the Raiders, who have long relied on his pass-rushing abilities as a cornerstone of their defense. The acquisition of early-round draft picks and a young cornerback like Terrion Arnold could help the Raiders retool their roster ahead of a potentially transformative season under Klint Kubiak.
Conversely, the Detroit Lions would receive a proven defensive edge rusher in Crosby, which could solidify their defense and revitalize their standing in the NFC. Partnering Crosby with established star Aidan Hutchinson could dramatically enhance their pass rush and overall defensive impact moving forward.
As the offseason progresses, both franchises will continue to evaluate what aligns best with their competitive goals, making the Maxx Crosby trade rumors one of the more closely watched stories in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
