The Cleveland Browns may be gearing up for more moves ahead of the NFL trade deadline, with defensive end Za’Darius Smith potentially on his way out. Wide receiver Elijah Moore, also in the final year of his contract and approaching free agency next spring, is another player drawing attention. The receiver market is active, and the Browns could find interested teams—like the Kansas City Chiefs—if they choose to trade Moore.
Having already sent wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills, the Browns might not be done making deals. Trade rumors have also surrounded key defensive players, including edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.
Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports mentioned Smith as one of three likely edge rushers to be traded before the deadline, alongside Haason Reddick of the New York Jets and Josh Uche of the New England Patriots.
Dajani noted, “Smith is someone who could attract attention from contenders seeking pass-rush assistance.”
Smith has made a significant impact since joining the Browns in 2023 via a trade with the Minnesota Vikings. The three-time Pro Bowler signed a two-year, $23 million extension with Cleveland in March. In his time with the Browns, he has played in 22 of 23 regular-season games, amassing 8 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks, contributing to the Browns’ defensive success last year.
This season, Smith has added 3 more sacks and 2 tackles for loss in six games. However, with the Browns sitting at 1-5, trading Smith for a late Day 2 or early Day 3 pick in the 2025 draft could be a smarter long-term move. The Browns still have Ogbo Okoronkwo, who could take over opposite Myles Garrett if Smith is moved before the November 5 deadline.
Other trade candidates for the Browns include cornerback Greg Newsome II and wide receiver Elijah Moore. Newsome, in the final year of his rookie contract, is set to become a free agent next March. Given Cleveland’s future salary cap constraints, trading Newsome for a Day 2 pick could be a sensible move unless the Browns were serious Super Bowl contenders.
Elijah Moore, also in his contract year, is another player the Browns might consider trading. With a strong receiver market, finding a team like the Kansas City Chiefs interested in Moore shouldn’t be difficult if Cleveland decides to make the move.
