The Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns are in talks to trade veteran pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith, with a deal expected to be finalized soon.
Smith has been a prominent name in trade discussions, especially as the Lions need pass-rushing help due to Pro Bowl defensive end Aidan Hutchinson’s injury.
While Smith played for the Browns against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, he is anticipated to be moved after that game, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.
A source indicated that Smith could be traded to Detroit either tonight or tomorrow. The 32-year-old has previously played for the Ravens, Packers, and Vikings and has expressed a desire to join the Lions to compete against his former teams.
The trade deadline is set for Tuesday, November 5, at 4 p.m. ET.
Za’Darius Smith A key component of the Browns’ defense.
Za’Darius Smith has increased his trade value with strong early-season performance, leading the Browns with five sacks, outpacing reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett.
The Browns acquired Smith from the Minnesota Vikings ahead of last season, along with a sixth-round and a seventh-round pick, in exchange for two fifth-round picks. He recorded five sacks last season and is on track to surpass that total in just eight games this year. This offseason, he signed a two-year, $23.5 million deal to stay in Cleveland.
With nearly a decade of experience in the NFL, Smith understands that trades are part of the business, and he’s not overly concerned about the possibility of being moved. “That’s not in my control,” he told cleveland.com. “I know that’s an AB push (from GM Andrew Berry).”
Browns defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire noted that Smith hasn’t changed his approach despite the trade rumors. “He’s a great pro, and we always quiet outside noise. We focus on what we do inside,” Cesaire said.
Myles Garrett Responded to Za’Darius Smith Trade Rumors
The Browns entered Week 9 with a 2-6 record, prompting trade discussions. Cleveland had already traded Amari Cooper, their top pass-catcher, to the Buffalo Bills as he approached the end of his contract.
Za’Darius Smith has been a strong complementary player alongside Myles Garrett, who often faces extra attention from multiple blockers. Garrett expressed confidence that Smith wouldn’t be traded.
“I’m going to continue to play with Z, so I’m not too worried about throwing out my pleasantries and compliments now,” Garrett said on Friday. “I’ll be able to tell him at the end of the year.”
Despite the team’s struggles, the Browns’ defense has performed well, with Garrett contributing significantly, including three first-half sacks against the Chargers.
Leave a Reply