The Detroit Lions acquire DE Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns to strengthen their pass rush ahead of the trade deadline. Following a solid 24-14 victory against the Green Bay Packers, the Lions made headlines on Tuesday morning by securing the veteran defensive end and a 2026 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick.
Positioned at the top of the NFC with a record of 7-1, the Lions have openly sought to enhance their defensive line as they pursue a Super Bowl title. Last week, head coach Dan Campbell hinted that a significant trade might be on the horizon, indicating the team’s proactive approach.
The Lions face challenges, having lost standout edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson for the remainder of the season. Additionally, injuries have sidelined Marcus Davenport, John Cominsky, and Derrick Barnes, leaving a noticeable gap in their defense. Despite being out since Week 6, Hutchinson still leads the team with 7.5 sacks, showcasing the impact of his absence.
Za’Darius Smith, now 32 years old, brings experience and skill to the Lions’ defense. He has started every game this season for the struggling Browns, who hold a disappointing 2-7 record. Smith has made his mark with five sacks and six tackles for loss, proving he can still contribute significantly on the field.
Throughout his decade-long NFL career, Smith has recorded double-digit sacks on three occasions, with his most recent achievement in 2022 while playing for the Minnesota Vikings. This marks his third stint in the NFC North, having previously played for the Green Bay Packers and the Vikings, underscoring his familiarity with the division.
