It’s official, Cleveland Browns pro defensive end, Za’Darius Smith, has been traded to the Detroit Lions. Executive VP and General Manager Brad Holmes is to be congratulated on getting the most bang for his buck and acquiring the best possible trade candidate. The Cleveland Browns traded Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick in exchange for the Lions’ 2025 fifth-round and 2026 sixth-round selections.
It is the best possible scenario for the Lions. They acquired a talented veteran pass rusher without sacrificing major draft capital. Furthermore, the Lions didn’t have to part with a valuable team player or significantly drain their salary cap.
How Za’Darius Smith’s Trade Will Impact Detroit Lions Defense
With 10 years of NFL experience, Smith brings a wealth of talent and expertise to the Lions defense. Ranked number 84 overall in the NFL Top 10 in 2022, Smith has 213 career tackles, 193 solo and 65 sacks. He has 10 forced fumbles and broke up 15 passes.
Despite ongoing team challenges, Smith has been an impact player for the Browns this season. Described by Cleveland teammates as a “sack machine,” Smith has recorded five sacks and 13 solo tackles in eight games.
How The Trade For Smith Will Strengthen Defense
Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has done a masterful job with an injury-depleted defense. In addition to Hutchinson, Glenn had to cover for season-ending injuries to Marcus Davenport (torn triceps) OL Derrick Barnes (knee injury), and John Cominsky (torn MCL). Defensive linemen Brodric Martin and Josh Paschal have also been missing from the lineup over the past several weeks. But despite the injuries, the next-man-up philosophy has been holding up well.
The 7-1 Lions defense is rated second in the NFL in takeaways with 11 interceptions and five fumble recoveries. The talented trio of Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, and Carlton Davis lead the team in tackles. Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch have been sensational, playing tough and coming away with clutch interceptions. After some initial growing pains, rookie Terrion Arnold has been playing quite well over the past month. Adding a talented edge rusher like Smith will only strengthen the Lions’ defense.
Smith Trade Is A Positive Addition For Lions Defense
Before he plays a single down for the Lions, Smith’s infectious energy and spirit will fit well with the team. Coach Dan Campbell has established a refreshingly upbeat and cohesive unit. The jubilant post-game locker room celebrations reveal a group committed to supporting each other and seeing themselves as a family.
In the quest to replace Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions weren’t merely trying to compensate for the loss of an elite athlete. Hutchinson has been a team leader who inspires teammates, coaches, and fans with his work ethic and passionate dedication.
Like Hutchinson, Smith’s enthusiasm and spirit are contagious. Praising Smith’s ability to inspire younger players, Brown’s Head Coach Kevin Stefanski described him as a ball of energy. “Za’Darius has been awesome. He practices hard and does a great job when he’s in the building, in the weight room, the meeting room, and on the field.”
It’s highly unlikely that any one individual player will be able to duplicate Hutchinson’s incredible skill set. His ability to read the field and make rapid adjustments is second to none. But if Smith can supply energy and passion with his athletic prowess, he will become a valuable asset to this team.
Main Photo: [Scott Galvin] – USA Today Sports
