Lions Acquire Former Pro Bowl DE Za’Darius Smith, per Reports
The Detroit Lions are reportedly trading for Cleveland Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Rapoport notes that the Lions are acquiring Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick.
This season, Smith has recorded 23 tackles, seven quarterback hits, and 5.0 sacks. The 10-year NFL veteran is familiar with the NFC North, having made the Pro Bowl during his time with the Green Bay Packers (2019-2020) and Minnesota Vikings (2022).
Smith, initially drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, joined the Browns last season. He’s currently in the first year of a two-year, $23 million contract with Cleveland, with $12 million guaranteed.
The Lions are adding Smith after losing star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who had surgery following a tibia and fibula fracture during the Lions’ win over the Dallas Cowboys last month. Head coach Dan Campbell noted that Hutchinson, who led the league in sacks and pressures before his injury, might return if the Lions make it to the Super Bowl. With the season halfway through, Detroit ranks around league average, tied for 17th with 24 sacks.
WATCH OUR PREVIOUS COVERAGE AFTER HUTCHINSON’S INJURY
Though Hutchinson’s production is tough to replace, Smith’s experience should help address one of the Lions’ few weaknesses.
Leading the NFC North with a 7-1 record, the Lions will face the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football on November 10, with the game set to start at 8:20 p.m. ET.
As of Tuesday morning, it’s not confirmed when Smith will join the team, as the Lions have not officially announced the trade. We will cover Smith’s introductory press conference when it occurs. Stay tuned with 7 News Detroit for updates.