The Detroit Lions may have the opportunity to acquire a superstar three-time Pro Bowler at a bargain price, as noted by NFL analyst Brad Berreman. With the trade deadline approaching on November 5, teams are strategizing as “buyers” or “sellers.” The Lions urgently need a solid defensive end to fill the gap left by Aidan Hutchinson, who is sidelined for the season due to a broken tibia.
Za’Darius Smith of the Cleveland Browns is being considered as a potential replacement for Hutchinson. Berreman highlighted the fit: “Smith’s name has been frequently linked to the Lions following Hutchinson’s injury.”
He emphasized that while Smith (6-foot-4, 275 pounds) can’t replace Hutchinson’s unique talent, he could effectively bolster the defense during Hutchinson’s absence.
Smith is described as a versatile player, strong in both pass rushing and run defense. He has recorded four sacks and three tackles for loss this season, ranking as a top-50 edge defender according to Pro Football Focus.
His contract is also manageable, as acquiring him would mean taking on the remainder of his $1.21 million base salary for this year, with a non-guaranteed $1.5 million salary next year. At 32, he may not fit into any potential rebuild the Browns might pursue, making him a valuable trade asset.
In a recent piece, Berreman noted that the 2-6 Browns are likely to be sellers at the trade deadline, with Smith standing out as a prime candidate for a deal. Smith himself has expressed enthusiasm about potentially joining the Lions.
“That’s a big loss for them,” he said regarding Hutchinson’s injury. “But if I was to go to Detroit, I would like it, because I get to play Green Bay and Minnesota twice each year.”
A player eager to compete against both the Packers and Vikings seems like a perfect addition to the Lions.
While there are various options to replace Hutchinson, each with its pros and cons, Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report also suggested that the Lions should consider New Orleans Saints defensive end Chase Young if he becomes available.
