Laying claim to one of the most disappointing records of the 2024 NFL season, the Cleveland Browns are making another trade.
According to multiple reports, the Browns have trade pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith to the Detroit Lions. A three-time Pro Bowl selection, Smith has spent the last two seasons in Cleveland and has tallied five sacks through the first nine games of the current season.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Browns will receive a 2025 fifth-round and 2026 sixth-round selection for Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick.
For Detroit, the Lions’ need for a pass-rusher has been obvious ever since 2022 No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson suffered what will likely be a season-ending leg injury in Detroit’s Week 6 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. At the time of his injury, the former Michigan star led the NFL with 7.5 sacks on the season.
As for Cleveland, the Browns lay claim to a 2-7 record and have previously signaled a willingness to listen to trade offers for veteran players. Last month, Cleveland traded Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills, while cornerback Greg Newsome II and Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku have also been mentioned as potential trade candidates.
The 2024 NFL trade deadline is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.