The Detroit Lions head into Week 9 with the best record in the NFC at 6-1. They are set to face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday in a crucial game that could help them gain an advantage over their NFC North rivals in the early chase for the divisional title.

While the Lions boast one of the strongest rosters in the league, they are currently missing a key player following star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson’s injury to his tibia and fibula in Week 6.

The third-year defensive end had already tallied 7.5 sacks before undergoing surgery, which is expected to sideline him until at least the Super Bowl, assuming the Lions make it that far.

Doug Farrar of AS has proposed a trade that could enhance the Lions’ chances for a deep postseason run, allowing Hutchinson the opportunity to return in February. Farrar suggests that the Lions could acquire Za’Darius Smith from the struggling 2-6 Cleveland Browns.

“Under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Detroit has ramped up its blitz rate recently, reaching a league-high 46.1% of opponent dropbacks in Weeks 7 and 8,” Farrar noted. “However, relying on blitzing excessively can compromise your coverage.

Adding Smith would be an incredible move, as his skill set allows for effective rushing with four or five players, reducing reliance on cornerbacks and safeties who may be struggling.”

Smith was signed by the Browns to a two-year contract worth $23 million in March.

Given his salary, he would be a manageable trade option, especially since the Lions have $27.4 million in cap space this season available to improve their roster, according to Over the Cap.

To secure Smith, the Lions would likely need to part with a Day 3 draft pick, but this should not deter a team focused on winning a Super Bowl immediately.

For the Browns, trading Smith would provide them with an additional draft pick as they begin to transition away from the Deshaun Watson era and prepare to rebuild around a rookie quarterback from the 2025 draft class.

Through the first eight games of the season, Smith has recorded 22 total tackles and five sacks.

Earlier this season, the All-Pro expressed a willingness to be traded to the NFC North, making this scenario potentially beneficial for both the Lions and Smith.

In summary, the acquisition of Za’Darius Smith could significantly bolster the Lions’ defense as they aim for a Super Bowl run, while the Browns can start planning for their future with an additional draft asset.

This trade proposal presents a win-win situation for both

teams involved.