Browns acquire Za’Darius Smith from Vikings

The Cleveland Browns have signed star edge rusher Za’Darius Smith in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings.

Cleveland will also receive a 2025 sixth-round and 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2024 fifth-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick in the terms of the trade.

Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, recorded 10 sacks and 44 combined tackles across 16 starts for Minnesota last season. He has reworked his contract which will guarantee him $11.75 million in 2023.

It’s a move that works well for all parties. Smith had looked to be in the market to move, the Vikings needed to address their salary cap situation, and the Browns have made their defensive line as the top priority as they look to go all in thus year.

More to follow.