Cleveland Browns defensive lineman Za'Darius Smith (99)
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns are deep in discussions over a potential deal involving veteran pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith. With expectations that a trade could be finalized soon, Smith’s name has become a focal point in the league’s trade chatter.
The Lions, in particular, are in desperate need of a pass-rushing threat. With Pro Bowl defensive end Aidan Hutchinson sidelined due to a fractured left tibia and fibula, bolstering their defensive line is a priority. Enter Za’Darius Smith, a player who could provide the Lions with the edge they need to maintain competitiveness.
Smith suited up for the Browns’ recent game against the Los Angeles Chargers but is widely expected to be moved shortly after the matchup. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported that, according to sources, a trade to Detroit could be imminent, possibly even as soon as tonight or tomorrow.
“Smith, 32, has played for the Ravens, Packers, and Vikings, and he has expressed enthusiasm about a potential trade to Detroit,” Florio noted. “Such a move would allow him to compete against two of his former teams, which adds an intriguing narrative to his career journey.”
A Valuable Asset on the Market
Za’Darius Smith has established himself as a key player on the Browns’ defense. Before Sunday’s game, he led the team with five sacks—outperforming even the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett. Smith was brought to Cleveland last season in a trade that saw the Browns acquire him along with draft picks from the Minnesota Vikings for two fifth-round selections. Since then, he has been an impactful presence on the field, and his early-season performance has only increased his trade value.
This offseason, Smith signed a two-year, $23.5 million deal with the Browns, solidifying his role in Cleveland. However, the looming trade talks have not seemed to faze him. “Shoot, man, that’s not in my control,” Smith said when asked about the speculation. “I know that’s an AB push (GM Andrew Berry).”
Browns defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire noted that Smith has remained unfazed by the trade rumors. “He approaches the day every day the same way. He’s a great pro, and we always quiet outside noise. We’re about what we do inside,” Cesaire remarked.
Garrett Weighs In: Will Smith Stay?
Despite the swirling trade rumors, Myles Garrett has voiced his confidence that Smith will remain with the Browns. As the team struggles with a 2-6 record, the discussions around Smith’s future have intensified. Garrett stated, “Well, I’m going to continue to play with Z, so I’m not too worried about throwing out my pleasantries and compliments now. I’ll be able to tell him at the end of the year.”
While the Browns’ defense has shown resilience, particularly with Garrett’s stellar play—he recorded three first-half sacks against the Chargers—the team’s overall struggles have fueled speculation about a fire sale, especially after the recent trade of top pass-catcher Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills.
As the clock ticks down to the November 5 trade deadline at 4 PM ET, all eyes will be on whether Za’Darius Smith will make the switch to the Detroit Lions. If he does, it could mark a significant shift in both teams’ defensive strategies moving forward. For now, the anticipation builds as fans and analysts alike await the outcome of this high-stakes negotiation.
