Done Deal: Detroit Lions Sign Maxx Crosby to a 5-Year, $450 Million Contract with Historic Guarantees
February 1, 2025 – Detroit, MI
The Detroit Lions have just made the biggest defensive signing in NFL history, securing superstar edge rusher Maxx Crosby on a five-year, $450 million contract, with $300 million fully guaranteed. The deal instantly makes Crosby the highest-paid defensive player ever, surpassing past record-holders like Aaron Donald and Nick Bosa.
This blockbuster move signals Detroit’s aggressive push toward a Super Bowl run. With Crosby now set to anchor the Lions’ pass rush, the franchise is making it clear: they are all in.
A Franchise-Altering Signing
The Lions, fresh off a deep playoff run, have been searching for the missing piece to elevate their defense to championship-caliber. Despite having a solid defensive core, Detroit lacked a true game-wrecking pass rusher who could dominate in crucial moments.
Enter Maxx Crosby, one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL.
Crosby’s tenure with the Raiders was nothing short of elite. A two-time First-Team All-Pro, he racked up 85 sacks, 200 tackles for loss, and over 150 quarterback hits in just six seasons. Known for his relentless motor, explosive burst off the line, and ability to collapse pockets, Crosby has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
His arrival in Detroit immediately turns the Lions’ defensive front into one of the most dangerous in the league.
Lions GM Brad Holmes on the Signing
Lions general manager Brad Holmes didn’t hold back in his excitement about bringing Crosby to Detroit:
“Maxx Crosby is everything we want in a Detroit Lion—tough, relentless, and committed to winning. We knew we had to make a move like this if we wanted to take the next step as a franchise. This is a historic deal, and we believe he’ll help lead us to a championship.”
Head coach Dan Campbell echoed the sentiment:
“Maxx is the ultimate competitor. He plays with fire, and that’s exactly what we need. Our defense just got a whole lot scarier.”
The Historic Deal: Breaking Down the Numbers
Crosby’s five-year, $450 million contract is groundbreaking in several ways:
$90 million per year – The highest annual salary for any defensive player in NFL history.
$300 million guaranteed – The largest guaranteed amount ever for a defensive star.
$100 million signing bonus – A record-setting bonus that immediately boosts Crosby’s earnings.
For context, Crosby’s deal dwarfs previous contracts:
Nick Bosa (49ers, 2023): 5 years, $170M, $122M guaranteed.
Aaron Donald (Rams, 2022): 3 years, $95M, fully guaranteed.
T.J. Watt (Steelers, 2021): 4 years, $112M, $80M guaranteed.
At $90 million per season, Crosby’s deal exceeds even the highest-paid quarterbacks, making him one of the most valuable players in the league—regardless of position.
What Crosby Brings to Detroit
The Lions’ defensive identity has been built around young stars like Aidan Hutchinson, Brian Branch, and Alim McNeill. However, they lacked an experienced pass rusher who could take over games on his own.
Crosby provides exactly that.
1. Elite Pass-Rushing Ability
Crosby is a sack machine. In 2024, he recorded a career-high 20 sacks and led the league in pressures. His ability to dominate one-on-one matchups forces offenses to shift protection schemes, opening up opportunities for the rest of the defense.
2. Relentless Motor and Leadership
Crosby is known for his high-energy playing style and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. He never takes a play off, something that perfectly aligns with Dan Campbell’s “grit” culture in Detroit.
3. Veteran Presence for Young Defenders
With young talents like Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston, the Lions already had promising pass rushers. But adding Crosby allows those players to develop alongside an elite veteran. His leadership will be crucial in mentoring the next generation of Detroit defenders.
What This Means for the Lions’ Super Bowl Hopes
With the NFC North becoming increasingly competitive, Detroit’s front office knew they had to make a bold move to stay ahead. The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers have been making aggressive offseason moves, while the Minnesota Vikings are restructuring their roster for another playoff push.
By signing Crosby, the Lions have cemented themselves as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
Elite Pass Rush: A defensive front featuring Crosby, Hutchinson, and McNeill is one of the most terrifying in the league.
A Complete Roster: With Jared Goff leading the offense, Jahmyr Gibbs dominating the run game, and Amon-Ra St. Brown as an elite receiver, the Lions now boast a balanced team.
Playoff-Tested Mentality: Detroit proved in 2024 that they can compete with the best. Now, they have a defensive centerpiece who can push them over the top.
NFL Analysts React
NFL insiders have been quick to praise Detroit’s move:
Adam Schefter (ESPN): “This is a franchise-changing signing. The Lions aren’t just trying to win the NFC North. They’re trying to win a Super Bowl.”
Shannon Sharpe (Fox Sports): “I love this move. Crosby is an absolute beast, and now Detroit has one of the scariest defenses in the league.”
Stephen A. Smith (ESPN): “The Lions just put the entire NFC on notice. This is a game-changer.”
Reaction from Raiders Fans
While Lions fans are celebrating, Las Vegas Raiders supporters are devastated by the loss of their franchise cornerstone. Crosby had been the heart and soul of the Raiders’ defense, and his departure leaves a massive hole in their lineup.
Some reports suggest that the Raiders were unwilling to match Detroit’s $450 million offer, leading Crosby to seek a new opportunity where he could compete for a championship.
Crosby’s Goodbye Message to Raiders Fans
Shortly after the deal was announced, Crosby took to social media to thank the Raider Nation for their support over the years:
“Las Vegas, you will always have a special place in my heart. You believed in me, supported me, and helped me become the player I am today. This was the toughest decision of my career, but I’m excited for this new chapter in Detroit. Thank you for everything.”
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What’s Next for the Lions?
With Crosby locked in, Detroit may not be done making moves.
More Defensive Additions? The Lions could still target another linebacker or secondary player to complement Crosby’s impact.
Contract Extensions: With Jared Goff’s contract expiring soon, Detroit will need to negotiate a long-term deal with their quarterback.
Super Bowl Mindset: All eyes will be on Detroit as they enter the 2025 season with sky-high expectations.
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Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for Detroit
The Detroit Lions have officially arrived.
This isn’t the same franchise that struggled for decades. With elite talent on both sides of the ball, a strong coaching staff, and now the best defensive player in football, Detroit is ready to make a serious Super Bowl push.
Maxx Crosby’s signing isn’t just about breaking records—it’s about changing the trajectory of an entire franchise.
For the first time in modern NFL history, the Lions are built to win now.
And with Crosby leading the charge, Detroit is primed for something special.
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