As the NFL trade deadline approaches on Tuesday, November 5, the Detroit Lions are racing against the clock to secure defensive reinforcements following edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson’s injury.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Lions have acquired veteran defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns to strengthen their defense. However, a tweet from Smith has sparked fan concerns that the deal might be at risk.
UPDATE Tuesday morning: The NFL has now confirmed that the trade has gone through.
Za’Darius Smith Posts ‘SMH’
Early Tuesday morning, Smith posted “SMH” (shaking my head) on X, sparking concern among fans that the trade may have hit a snag. The post was deleted within 30 minutes, raising questions about the deal’s status. Smith was reportedly excited to join the Lions, and fans are now anxiously awaiting confirmation that the trade is secure.
Earlier this week, NFL insider Mike Florio predicted a deal with Smith was likely. According to a November 3 report, Florio stated that the Lions were close to acquiring the standout Cleveland defensive end.
“Yes, the Lions and Browns have discussed a potential trade for Za’Darius Smith,” Florio wrote. “At this point, the expectation is that it’ll be more than just talk. According to a source, the current expectation is that Smith will be traded to Detroit tonight or tomorrow.”
Lions and Browns Dispute Compensation
Florio isn’t the only one expecting Smith to join Detroit soon. NFL insider Adam Schefter discussed the deal on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Monday, November 4, noting that while the Lions and Browns have held significant talks, they have yet to settle on compensation.
“Do I think the Lions and Browns have had significant talks? Yeah. Do I think they have agreed on compensation? No. I think they’re still arguing about that,” Schefter said. “Could another team step in? Yes. But I think the Browns and Lions will eventually get it done.”
He added, “But things can change; you never know. Teams are always checking in to see if there’s interest. Whether it’s acquiring a player or trading for draft picks, winning teams are looking to improve.”
With the 4 p.m. Eastern deadline approaching, fans should have a final answer soon.
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