Star Defender Adds to Lions Trade Buzz With Social Media Activity

Ever since the Detroit Lions suffered a disappointing loss at home to the Washington Commanders in the playoffs, the fans have begun thinking about the roster upgrades they need to make in the offseason. Considering that their struggles came on the defensive side of the ball, the Lions are expected to be aggressive in free agency and the trade market to address defensive concerns.

The trade market is loaded with talent this offseason. While Myles Garrett officially requested a trade and is at the center of speculation, Lions fans are equally excited about the opportunity to trade for a hometown hero in Maxx Crosby. The Lapeer, MI native who spent four seasons at Eastern Michigan, hasn't officially asked to be traded from the Raiders but the rumors surrounding him are not relenting.

In fact, before the Super Bowl, he added fuel to the fire on social media.

Maxx Crosby Adds Fuel to the Lions Trade Rumors

During the Detroit Pistons' win over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday, Crosby tweeted about his excitement about the "ballin" Pistons. With the win, Detroit moved to 27-26 for the season, on pace for their first winning season since the 2015-16 campaign.

While Crosby could have just been excited about the success of his hometown team in the NBA, Lions fans immediately started speculating about the star defender's homecoming.

The latest reporting out of Las Vegas suggested that Crosby could be more interested in staying with the Raiders after the Pete Carroll hire. NFL insiders, however, don't seem to think that is the case. Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero recently reported that Crosby would likely be interested in a trade that landed him on a contender.

The Detroit Lions don't only check the contender box, but it would also have a special meaning for Crosby. The Pro Bowl pass rusher has two more years left on his deal but has no more guaranteed salary. Considering how far the Raiders are from being a serious, competitive team, it's hard to imagine them turning down a trade package that could set them up well for the future.

Crosby would likely require at least one first-round pick in a deal. The Lions are very close to getting over the hump and making it to Super Bowl. The idea of pairing Crosby with Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and DJ Reader to make the most formidable defensive line in the NFL would likely be worth the draft capital needed to pull off the trade.

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