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NFL Trade Rumors: Za'Darius Smith a 'Hot Name'; Browns want a really good pick for Day 3 | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

NFL Trade Rumors: Za'Darius Smith a 'Hot Name'; Browns want a really good pick for Day 3 | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

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CLEVELAND, OHIO – OCTOBER 27: Za'Darius Smith #99 of the Cleveland Browns celebrates after a sack in the third quarter of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field on October 27, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

Nick Cammett/Getty Images

Cleveland Browns defensive end Za'Darius Smith is a “hot name” right now as the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, who added that the team is looking for a “really good pick in return.” “Day 3”.

“He’s a hot name right now,” Fowler reported Sports center.

“The Detroit Lions desperately need a pass rusher after injuries. The teams I've spoken to believe the Browns want a really good Day 3 pick for Smith, so a fourth-rounder or something would probably do it. But I'm told the Browns are willing to keep him because they've had him under contract for two years and he's playing well for them. One name to keep an eye on could be moved to the deadline.

The 32-year-old Smith, a 10-year NFL veteran, collected a team-high five sacks for the Browns this season.

The Detroit Lions are an obvious trade partner for the Browns. Star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson suffered a broken fibula and tibia and is expected to miss the entire season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The NFC-leading 6-1 Lions could use reinforcements as they seek their first Super Bowl in franchise history, so Smith could be an option here.

Hutchinson had a phenomenal season, collecting 7.5 sacks and 17 quarterback hits in just five games. No other Lion has more than 2.5 sacks or seven QB hits. While Smith won't replace Hutchinson's production (very few pass rushers could), he is exceptional in his own way and would be a huge asset to a team in need of help.

However, as Fowler said, the Browns could simply keep Smith, who is under contract through 2025. He is one of the team's best defensive players. And although the 2-6 team will most likely miss the playoffs, it is regaining some momentum after a dramatic 29-24 win over the 5-3 Baltimore Ravens last Sunday under quarterback Jameis Winston, who was making his first career start Cleveland. They could keep Smith and hope for a strong second half of the season and perhaps an outside shot at a wild card spot.

In any case, Smith is an important name to keep an eye on as the trade deadline approaches. Wide receivers have changed frequently in recent days, including Amari Cooper, who moved from the Browns to the Buffalo Bills. There may be a pass rusher on the move soon, with Smith's name mentioned here.

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