The Cleveland Browns have indeed positioned themselves as potential sellers at this NFL trade deadline, despite recent on-field success. The move to trade Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills signals Cleveland’s willingness to reshape its roster and potentially gain draft capital or address other areas of need. Following this trend, NFL rumors suggest that pass rusher Za’Darius Smith might be the next player they’re willing to deal, as teams across the league evaluate their rosters and playoff prospects.
Even after a significant win over the Baltimore Ravens, the Browns appear committed to exploring deals for veteran players, indicating a focus on long-term strategy and asset accumulation rather than a full push for the current season. Smith, known for his ability to disrupt the backfield, could attract teams in need of a defensive boost, especially those aiming to strengthen their pass rush for a playoff run.
As Week 9 approaches, the Cleveland Browns find themselves in a challenging position. With a 1-3 record at both home and away, they sit 12th in the AFC, trailing the Los Angeles Chargers by 2.5 games for the seventh playoff spot. Despite standout performances on defense, the team’s overall point differential of -48 underscores some difficulties on both sides of the ball.
Za’Darius Smith has been a key contributor for the Browns’ defense, racking up 6 QB hits, 5 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. His productivity has been invaluable, especially in a season where Cleveland’s defense hasn’t received much attention. However, the financial burden of Deshaun Watson’s contract, which will impact the team’s cap space significantly in 2025 and beyond, has put pressure on the Browns to consider moves that could free up cap space and secure future draft capital. By possibly trading Smith, Cleveland aims to balance their roster financially and build through younger talent on more affordable contracts, making a long-term investment in the team’s sustainability.
The Cleveland Browns are reportedly seeking a “really good Day 3 pick” for veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, with a fourth-round pick as the likely target. A conditional fifth-round pick, which could become a fourth-rounder based on performance incentives, might also satisfy Cleveland’s asking price. Possible conditions could include Smith being active for his new team during a Divisional Round or Conference Championship game, similar to clauses in the trades for Davante Adams and DeAndre Hopkins.
Smith’s current contract carries a manageable $5.235 million cap hit for 2024 and a $9.433 million cap hit in 2025, making him an attractive option for teams seeking immediate defensive impact. With interest from the Detroit Lions and possibly other contenders, Cleveland’s chances of securing solid draft compensation are bolstered, especially as Smith’s name continues to generate buzz among teams with playoff ambitions.
Adam Schefter has suggested on *The Pat McAfee Show* that Za’Darius Smith is likely to be traded before the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 4:00 PM EDT. Given that Cleveland has a game on Sunday, they might choose to sideline Smith as a precaution, aiming to avoid any last-minute injury that could jeopardize potential deals. With Smith drawing interest from teams like the Detroit Lions and others seeking defensive reinforcements, Cleveland may find the return they’re hoping for to create future cap space while securing draft assets.
