Locked On Lions - Daily Podcast On The Detroit Lions · Matt Dery, Locked On Podcast Network

LONGSHOT: Detroit Lions Maxx Crosby Rumors EXPLAINED—Why Holmes likely CAN’T Pull the TRIGGER!

·29 min·2 clips

Matt Dery explains why the Lions likely can't afford to trade for superstar edge rusher Maxx Crosby.

This episode of Locked On Lions focuses on the persistent trade rumors linking star edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Detroit Lions. Host Matt Dery, a longtime Lions analyst, examines the feasibility of such a blockbuster move. He also addresses updates on safety Kerby Joseph's injury and running back David Montgomery's future. Dery cites a report from Fox's Jay Glazer stating Crosby has played his last game for the Las Vegas Raiders. The 28-year-old Crosby, an Eastern Michigan alum with ties to Detroit, has publicly admired Dan Campbell and the Lions' culture. From a financial perspective, Crosby is owed $30 million next year, and pairing his contract with Aidan Hutchinson's impending mega-extension would commit over $45 million to one defensive line edge. General Manager Brad Holmes has historically avoided allocating such massive resources to a single position group. The host references the recent trade of Micah Parsons, which cost the Packers two first-round picks and a player, as a potential framework for a Crosby deal. Dery notes the Lions' consistent team-building philosophy under Holmes prioritizes drafting, developing, and retaining homegrown talent over blockbuster trades. He contrasts this with the Detroit Tigers' recent large free-agent pitching signing, acknowledging different salary structures between MLB and the NFL. A surprising claim involves Dr. David Chao, the "NFL Doc," who told beat writer Dave Birkett that Kerby Joseph's knee injury involving articular cartilage is "dicey" and compared his recovery to a "Hail Mary." Dery questions this assessment since Chao admitted he hasn't reviewed Joseph's specific medical charts. David Montgomery expressed contentment in Detroit, telling reporters he has discussed his role with new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and wants to be more involved. The most interesting insight is Dery's contention that the Lions' operational history, not desire or fit, is the primary barrier to a Crosby trade. He argues Holmes values long-term cap flexibility to re-sign young stars like Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs over a single superstar acquisition. The episode highlights the tension between a fan's dream scenario and the pragmatic reality of NFL team construction and salary cap management. The tone is conversational and analytical, blending fan passion with a reporter's scrutiny of rumors and financial realities. Dery's style is energetic and direct, offering clear opinions while detailing the complexities of NFL contracts and roster strategy. Lions fans obsessed with offseason speculation and salary cap mechanics will love this detailed breakdown. Listeners seeking pure Xs and Os football strategy or definitive news might skip it, as the episode heavily analyzes a move the host ultimately deems unlikely.

As heard by us

A steady Lions daily show that turns the Maxx Crosby talk into practical roster discussion.

Locked On Lions centers on the annual Maxx Crosby and Lions conversation, then broadens to Kirby Joseph's future and the practical business of roster talk.

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Why you'd press play

If you want the recurring Max Crosby-Lions chatter broken down without the hype, this is your stop.

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