As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Ravens are in a prime position to take advantage of a rival’s implosion.
The Cleveland Browns, now sitting at a disastrous 1-6, have begun offloading key players as they look to reset after another disappointing season. Amid the potential fire sale, one name stands out: Za’Darius Smith.
Smith, a Pro Bowl edge rusher who began his career in Baltimore, is rumored to be drawing heavy interest from multiple contenders, including the Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers. Given the Ravens’ current defensive struggles, the opportunity to reunite with a familiar face could be a game-changing move.
This is more than adding talent, it's about striking while the iron’s hot and punishing a divisional rival’s collapse.
Za'Darius Smith is better off on the Ravens than the lifeless Cleveland Browns
The Ravens have been stout against the run, and they’ve done a decent job of getting after quarterbacks. But their pass defense has been a glaring weakness, currently the worst in the league.
Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo have had trouble sealing games, and that’s where a seasoned vet like Za'Darius Smith could really help. His presence would not only strengthen the pass-rush rotation but also bring much-needed leadership to a group still finding its footing - an asset Baltimore could use down the stretch.
The Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Lions, and Washington Commanders are just a few of the teams who have talked with the Cleveland #Browns regarding DE Za'darius Smith, per a league source. https://t.co/wfhSGh8P4d
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) October 21, 2024
Smith’s familiarity with Baltimore's defensive scheme is a major plus. Drafted by the Ravens in 2015, he posted 18.5 sacks over four seasons before signing with the Green Bay Packers in 2019. Since then, he has become one of the league’s most consistent pass rushers, logging three Pro Bowl appearances and a pair of double-digit sack seasons.
While his production dipped to 5.5 sacks last season with Cleveland, Smith still led the Browns’ defense in pressures, making him a valuable asset.
Baltimore's front office has shown a knack for making bold midseason moves, particularly when it comes to defense. Two years ago, the acquisition of Roquan Smith transformed the Ravens’ linebacking corps and elevated their overall performance.
A similar impact could be expected from adding Za’Darius, whose versatility allows him to line up both outside and on the interior, giving defensive coordinator Zach Orr flexibility in his play-calling.
Ravens need a veteran pass rusher for playoff push
While the Ravens' offense has been electric, the defense hasn't kept pace, especially against the pass, where they rank near the bottom of the league. The team’s 4th-place sack total entering Week 8 masks inconsistent pressure, with sacks often coming in bunches rather than key moments.
Adding Za'Darius Smith could bring stability to a young pass rush and help disrupt opposing quarterbacks when it matters most. With 64 career sacks and playoff experience, he remains a strong part-time option, even if he's not the force he was in his Green Bay days.
Cleveland's probable rebuild likely makes Smith available at a reasonable price, with mid-round draft picks a likely cost. Baltimore has a chance to both strengthen its defense and weaken a rival as it battles through a shaky AFC North, where both the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers have also struggled.
Reuniting with Smith would signal the Ravens’ intent to go all-in this year, giving them a veteran boost that could elevate them from contenders to legitimate Super Bowl threats.