Za'Darius Smith Traded to Lions as Browns Restructure Roster

The Lions acquire veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith from the Browns to strengthen their defense after Aidan Hutchinson's injury.

The Cleveland Browns traded Za'Darius Smith to the Detroit Lions, receiving a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick in return.
The trade addresses the Lions' need for a pass rusher following Aidan Hutchinson's season-ending leg injury.
Smith, who has five sacks this season, will bolster the Lions' defense as they aim for a Super Bowl run with their 7-1 record.
The Browns are focusing on rebuilding, having traded away key players amid a disappointing 2-7 start to the season.
Smith's departure allows the Browns to evaluate younger players like Isaiah McGuire and Ogbo Okoronkwo in more prominent roles.