Breaking News: Detroit Lions Make Bold Move by Acquiring Star Pass-Rusher Za'Darius Smith from Browns!

In a significant shake-up for the team, the Detroit Lions have just acquired edge rusher Za'Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. As part of the deal, the Lions will not only bring Smith into the fold but will also receive a seventh-round draft pick in 2026. In exchange, the Lions are sending a fifth-round pick in 2025 and a sixth-round pick in 2026 to Cleveland.

This move comes as the Lions urgently seek to bolster their defensive line, especially after the devastating loss of their star defensive end, Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a broken fibula and tibia that will sideline him for the entire season. Currently, the Lions are struggling without Hutchinson, ranking 25th in the league in pressure rate and lacking any player with three or more sacks so far this season.

Za'Darius Smith, a formidable presence on the field, was previously traded to the Browns from the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. Following the trade, Smith inked a two-year extension worth $23 million with Cleveland this past offseason, keeping him under contract through the 2025 season. This year, he has demonstrated his prowess with an impressive stat line, accumulating 26 pressures, seven quarterback hits, and five sacks in just nine games.

With this acquisition, the Lions are intent on turning their season around. Smith's experience and skill could be the game-changer they desperately need as they gear up for the final push in the 2023 season. Fans are eager to see how this strategic move will impact the team’s performance moving forward!

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!