After last week’s surprise win over the Baltimore Ravens, some Browns fans are hopeful about a possible late Wild Card run.
However, long-time owner Jimmy Haslam may have different plans.
ESPN senior NFL writer Dan Graziano reports that the Browns are considering trade offers for veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith ahead of next Tuesday’s trade deadline.
A nine-year veteran, Smith has recorded five sacks in Cleveland’s first eight games—one more than fellow defensive end Myles Garrett, whom Graziano notes is unlikely to be traded. Smith is set to earn $1.21 million in guaranteed salary this season, with nearly $11 million in non-guaranteed pay in 2025. He could potentially command a third-round pick from a Super Bowl-contending team seeking experienced defensive support. Now 32, Smith has had a well-traveled career, starting in Baltimore, then playing three seasons in Green Bay, a season in Minnesota, and now in Cleveland.
Teams that may be interested in an edge rusher include the Dallas Cowboys, who are without DeMarcus Lawrence due to injury, and the Detroit Lions, who may want to bolster their defense after Aidan Hutchinson’s injury.
