As the NFL trade deadline approaches on Tuesday, Nov. 5, many teams are actively considering trades, whether they’re looking to buy or sell as the 2024 season heads into its second half.
The Cleveland Browns, sitting at a disappointing 2-7 after a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, appear to have accepted that their playoff hopes are slim. With the team likely to focus on rebuilding for the future, the Browns could become sellers leading up to the deadline.
One player generating interest is defensive end Za’Darius Smith, who is reportedly available for trade.
The Detroit Lions, who recently lost standout pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson to a season-ending injury, are a potential suitor.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Lions have expressed interest in acquiring Smith and are willing to offer a fourth-round pick to Cleveland in exchange.
“Detroit and Cleveland have discussed a potential deal for Smith, with the price reportedly set at a fourth-rounder, which could set the market for the position,” Breer said.
Given the Browns’ likely position as sellers and the Lions’ playoff aspirations, this trade could come to fruition before Tuesday’s deadline.
Detroit, looking to make a strong push toward a Super Bowl run, could see Smith as an important addition to their defense.
As the deadline looms, it remains to be seen if this trade will happen, and whether the Browns will pursue other deals to reshape their roster for the future.
The next couple of days will be critical for both teams as they finalize their plans.