Browns DE Za’Darius Smith absent from practice amid trade buzz

Cleveland Browns DE Za’Darius Smith missed practice on Wednesday, fueling trade rumors surrounding the 10-year veteran.

As whispers of change fill the air, Cleveland Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith finds himself at the heart of swirling trade rumors. His absence from practice on Wednesday, initially unexpected and unexplained, only fueled speculation that the Browns might consider moving their veteran pass rusher before the Nov. 5 trade deadline.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy FowlerSmith is one of the “hot names” circulating around the league, with Cleveland reportedly looking for a “really good Day 3 pick” in return. Initially absent from the Browns’ pre-practice injury report — a list that included guard Joel Bitonio and linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah — Smith’s unexpected absence kept Browns fans and analysts guessing. The team later cited illness as the reason, but that did little to quell the conversation.

Trade candidates: Latest news on Za’Darius Smith, Mike Williams and Tre’Davious White @Sportcentrum of @itsthebaldgirl pic.twitter.com/ZfzvOJd9ow

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 30, 2024

At 32 years old, Za’Darius Smith has brought experience and impact to Cleveland, recording a team-high five sacks this season. In a ten-year career full of grit and grit, this final chapter could yet include another twist as trade negotiations continue and the clock ticks down on the deadline.

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Possible candidates for Za’Darius Brown

For the Detroit Lions, a new chapter in their Super Bowl chase was struck by the cruel hand of fate. Aidan Hutchinson, their electrifying star and relentless pass rusher, suffered a devastating injury: a broken fibula and tibia, an injury that will cost him the entire season, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

“In my mind, Diontae Johnson and Za’Darius Smith will be traded before the deadline.

The Rams are only one game out in the NFC West and I don’t expect them to move Cooper Kupp.”@AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/PhIPBmYAu2

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 28, 2024

Hutchinson was more than a player; he was a symbol of the Lions’ rebirth, amassing 7.5 sacks and 17 quarterback hits in just five games. His presence alone was a force, a reminder of Detroit’s high expectations. With the Lions sitting atop the NFC at 6-1, their Super Bowl dreams are more vivid than ever, but they’re missing a crucial piece.

Then head coach Dan Campbell When asked if a transaction was in the offing, his answer was as simple as it was telling: “It could be.”

Campbell didn’t elaborate, but his facial expression spoke volumes. The excitement, the readiness: it was there, unmistakable. For a team on the cusp of greatness, Campbell’s words feel like the edge of something great. At 6-1, Detroit has its eyes squarely on the ultimate prize. And with Smith potentially joining their ranks, the Lions are gearing up to keep that momentum alive.

Smith’s third organization in three seasons?

He’s not Hutchinson; few could fill that void. But Smith is a talent in his own right, a veteran with the tenacity, drive and experience Detroit needs. For a team ready to rewrite history, Smith could be a lifeline, a way to keep the fire burning even in the face of losing.