The Detroit Lions made a significant trade just before the deadline, with general manager Brad Holmes acquiring edge rusher Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns.
It was well known that the Lions needed help at edge rusher, especially after Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport suffered season-ending injuries.
Smith brings a strong track record, with 10 NFL seasons under his belt, including three Pro Bowl years with double-digit sacks. His resume made him the top available edge rusher ahead of the deadline.
Unfortunately, Lions fans will need to wait another week to see Smith play, as the 32-year-old was inactive for Week 10 against the Houston Texans.
Smith joined the Lions late in the week after head coach Dan Campbell allowed him a few days off, as he didn’t get a bye week with the Browns and won’t with the Lions, who have already had theirs.
It’s uncertain if the Lions felt he needed more time to adjust, but it’s likely that giving Smith the week off was prioritized because he didn’t get one with Cleveland.
At 32, rest is especially crucial for Smith. It’s a long season, and with the Lions aiming for the Super Bowl, he could be playing through February.
While it’s disappointing that Smith isn’t in action immediately, the Lions can afford the delay with their 7-1 record and NFC North lead going into Week 10.
