Five NFL Teams in Competition with the Dallas Cowboys for Cleveland Browns Defensive End Za’Darius Smith
Za’Darius Smith and the Detroit Lions seem like a perfect match for a trade, but if Detroit doesn’t act quickly, other teams might swoop in. As the trade deadline approaches on November 5, the Lions are urgently looking for an edge rusher.
There’s been considerable speculation about the Lions targeting Cleveland Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith. He reportedly has interest in Detroit, the trade cost appears low, and he fits the Lions’ needs as an edge defender.
At 32, Smith is not part of Cleveland’s long-term plans, making him an attractive trade candidate due to his reasonable contract. Many teams are likely circling, and for good reason.
While a rival team has quickly addressed a gap from a key injury, the Lions have yet to bolster support for Aidan Hutchinson. While careful evaluation of options is smart, the opportunity to act is dwindling.
Although Smith and the Lions seem like a great fit, Detroit isn’t the only contender; the Browns are receiving multiple offers. There’s a strong chance Smith will end up with a different team by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, especially if the Lions delay.
Here are five teams that might outbid the Lions for Za’Darius Smith.
Five teams that could potentially acquire Smith ahead of the Lions
Dallas Cowboys
With a 3-4 record, the Cowboys could approach the trade deadline in various ways, but given Jerry Jones’s history, they’re likely to be buyers. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell highlighted this sentiment regarding teams that should pursue trades.
On a quieter note, the Cowboys clearly need defensive reinforcement. Smith’s affordable salary wouldn’t be a barrier, so overlooking the deal due to finances would seem unreasonable, especially with Jones aiming to stay ahead.
With Jones in charge and often unchecked, the Cowboys have a reputation for overpaying in trades (as seen with the Trey Lance deal). The Browns could leverage this if Dallas submits a more lucrative offer than others.
The bottom line: despite seeming unlikely, the Cowboys are a legitimate threat to outbid the Lions for Smith before the deadline.