The NFL trade deadline is typically quieter compared to other major sports, with big-name players rarely being traded.
However, this doesn’t mean it can’t happen, especially when injuries force teams to act. This could be the case this year, as the Detroit Lions, who crushed the Dallas Cowboys 47-9 in Week 6, now face a setback.
Star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson suffered a severe leg injury during the win and was taken to the hospital. He is set to undergo surgery for a fractured tibia, and though his return timeline is unclear, it’s doubtful he’ll play again this season.
With Detroit now 4-1 and considered strong contenders for their first-ever Super Bowl, they may need to explore replacing Hutchinson. One potential target is Maxx Crosby. The Las Vegas Raiders, who had a strong finish last season under Antonio Pierce, have struggled in 2024. The offense has been poor, with wide receiver Davante Adams even requesting a trade, and the defense hasn’t been much better, aside from Crosby’s performance.
Crosby’s frustration is visible, as he shoved a coach after their Week 6 loss to the Steelers. He may be looking for a fresh start, and the Raiders could benefit from trading him while his value is high. Crosby has two years left on his $94 million contract, but there’s an out after this season that would leave the team with $10 million in dead cap. Though trades often include the original team retaining some of the salary, the Lions are tight on cap space this year.
At just 27, Crosby would likely cost a first-round pick and more. While it might be expensive for Detroit, pairing Crosby with Hutchinson next season could make for a dominant pass-rushing duo.
Other potential targets include Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals and Za’Darius Smith of the Cleveland Browns. Hendrickson’s stock is high, though the Bengals are underperforming at 1-4. He’s under contract for two more years, making him a valuable trade asset.
Meanwhile, the Browns, with a 1-5 record, are struggling. Cleveland’s Myles Garrett would command a huge return, but moving Smith might be more realistic. At 32, Smith could be a fit for a team looking to win now, though he likely wouldn’t fetch more than a late-round pick.
