Pro Bowler edge rusher ZaDarius Smith is drawing plenty of trade interest this season and the Ravens, Chargers may pursue him. The Cleveland Browns season looks to be over after being 1-5 and sticking with quarterback Deshaun Watson despite their struggles. After trading Amari Cooper, things are messy in Cleveland so they end up firesale as many talents as possible since they’ll likely go into another rebuilding year. However, rumors are circulating that Smith could be one of the names among Greg Newsome who could move on to another roster.
Originally selected in the 2015 Draft, the veteran attempted to establish as one of the better pass rushers in Baltimore before earning three Pro Bowl nods with the Packers. Last year, the edge rusher posted just under six sacks which was his lowest in his debut for Cleveland. He probably won’t ever become a true reliable weapon under the mess the Browns have since the problems don’t just come from their poor offensive performance. Smith failed to live up to the expectations this season to no fault of his own in terms of pass-rush production.
He might’ve been a journeyman but could be a reliable defensive piece for any team that needs one. Smith understands that it’ll be up to Cleveland’s front staff if they want to trade him, but it shouldn’t surprise anyone if he requests one. Frustrations are brewing in Cleveland so it might be easier for him to head to a team that has a postseason chance before his prime days are over.
Pro Bowler ZaDarius Smith Drawing Trade Interest, Ravens, Chargers Suitors
Extra Veteran Help
The Ravens have one of the youngest pass-rushing units since letting Jadeveon Clowney sign with Carolina. Roquan Smith and Kyle Van Noy have been doing their best to hold down the fort but it may get tougher during the playoff stretch. A possible reunion could happen with a familiar face that could boost their postseason chances. However, David Ojabo and Odafe Oweh have been average at best but adding someone like Smith who knows the defensive system may be useful.
Baltimore has one of the most ferocious offenses but they still have some work to do on their defense. The woes are still showing since losing Patrick Queen as well. They have the talent but some of the players lack the playoff experience adding Smith could make all around the difference. Smith might not be the best available pass rusher or fastest anymore, but he could still put up a few sacks in a part-time role.
Old-School Defense
Even though Smith is open to the idea of joining forces in Detroit, it might be better to grab a bigger spotlight in Los Angeles. The Chargers hoped Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa would produce better numbers this season but that hasn’t been happening. They’re already taking a hit to their secondary since losing Kristian Fulton so they might have to rely on the pass rush more to get after the quarterback. Smith is getting older but he could be available at a cheap cost for the Chargers.
Jim Harbaugh always loves winning games in the trenches and if he wants to make some noise, they should sign Smith to bolster their defense. They must do something to dethrone Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs and even if the veteran might not be the final answer, it’s better than risking Bosa and Mack in time for the postseason since they have a strong history of injuries.
