Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Sunday that the Browns hosted Za’Darius Smith for a tryout, that he passed a physical, and that he is expected to sign with Cleveland imminently.
- There is no team confirmation and the report is clouded by a brief deleted social-media comment from Smith saying he had another workout scheduled and by a subsequent workout report connecting him to the Atlanta Falcons.
- The potential signing responds to Cleveland’s need for proven pass-rush help after trading Myles Garrett and a preseason showing that raised concerns about edge depth.
- Smith is a three-time Pro Bowler who abruptly retired in October 2025 after five games with the Eagles and comes into talks with career totals of roughly 70.5 sacks and 343 tackles.
- Reporters expect any contract to be short-term and modest with Smith serving as a situational pass rusher and mentor for players like Jared Verse while the Browns await formal confirmation.