The Lions and Packers have emerged as key teams in the latest Maxx Crosby trade rumors. The NFL offseason is shaping up to be a busy one, with the Las Vegas Raiders potentially parting ways with their top pass rusher.
Crosby had hinted at a trade request in an interview a month ago, citing the growing difficulty of his situation. Although the Raiders are moving in the right direction under new head coach Pete Carroll, Crosby emphasized that the decision to trade him lies with Las Vegas, as he remains focused on playing football.
The Lions are seen as a strong potential suitor for Crosby, especially after their disappointing loss to the Commanders, during which key players were sidelined and Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury. Crosby’s tweet showing support for the Detroit Pistons further fueled speculation about his possible move to Detroit.
The Packers could also be interested, though a trade might involve cornerback Jaire Alexander along with other assets.
For the Raiders, parting with their top defensive player would require a substantial return, likely including multiple first-round picks and a capable offensive player. As the team enters a rebuilding phase, they need all the resources they can get to accelerate the process. However, teams like the Chargers and Panthers may present offers that the Raiders cannot ignore.
For the Chargers, rebuilding their passing offense around quarterback Justin Herbert is a priority, but they won’t make significant progress without improving their defensive pass rush.
With Khalil Mack possibly leaving and Joey Bosa becoming a cap casualty, the Chargers need fresh talent to align with head coach Jim Harbaugh’s philosophy of dominating the trenches. Poona Ford could return, but given their inconsistent wide receiver situation with Quentin Johnston, they might use him as trade leverage.
A trade package from the Chargers could involve two first-round picks and a future third-round selection, along with Johnston to sweeten the deal. Since the Raiders are in rebuilding mode, they might be interested in this offer, which would allow them to develop Johnston into a more reliable receiver.
The Panthers, under head coach Dave Canales, are also focusing on rebuilding their roster.
Much of their attention has been on acquiring capable wide receivers for quarterback Bryce Young. With promising prospects like Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker, they could offer defensive veterans like Jadeveon Clowney, along with Miles Sanders and wide receiver Adam Thielen, in exchange for Crosby. Including two first-round picks could make this deal even more enticing for the Raiders.
With Derrick Brown expected to return, pairing him with Crosby could help strengthen the Panthers’ defensive front. This trade could make sense, as the Panthers did not invest as heavily in defense during last offseason as they did in offense.