The Detroit Lions head into Week 9 with the NFC’s top record at 6-1. They’re set to face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday in a game that could help Detroit establish a lead over their NFC North rivals in the early divisional race.
Detroit boasts one of the NFL’s strongest rosters but will be missing a key player since standout pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson injured his tibia and fibula in Week 6. Before his surgery, the third-year defensive end had tallied 7.5 sacks. He’s expected to be out until at least the Super Bowl—assuming the Lions advance that far.
AS writer Doug Farrar suggests a trade that could help the Lions make a significant playoff push, allowing Hutchinson to return in February. Farrar recommends Detroit acquire Za’Darius Smith from the 2-6 Cleveland Browns.
“Detroit, under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, has increased their blitz rate (a league-high 46.1% of opponent dropbacks in Weeks 7-8), but relying on that too much impacts coverage,” Farrar noted. “Smith would be an ideal addition, as his abilities allow for effective four- and five-man rushes, reducing the strain on cornerbacks and safeties.”
The Browns signed Smith to a two-year, $23 million contract in March. At 32, his salary makes him a viable trade option, and the Lions’ $27.4 million in cap space this season, according to Over the Cap, gives them room to improve.
To acquire Smith, the Lions would likely need to offer a Day 3 draft pick—a small price for a team aiming for the Super Bowl. The Browns could gain a valuable pick as they look to transition from the Deshaun Watson era, potentially building around a rookie quarterback in the 2025 draft class.
