With Smith, Detroit gets a proven, experienced pass rusher who also plays the run well – something the Lions value in their defensive system. As a former Packer and Viking, Smith is well-versed in the NFC North and offers an immediate upgrade. His 26 QB pressures ranked him second on the Lions, behind only Hutchinson's 30 in 2024.

The 32-year-old is coming off a poor season in 2023, generating 5.5 sacks, but has seen a return to normalcy in 2024, recording five in nine games in Cleveland. The veteran admitted it took some time to transition from the 3-4 system to the Browns' 4-3 defense. The good news for the Lions is that he has shown the ability to turn things around this season, going 4-3.

It's not an earth-shattering move for the Lions, who sit atop the NFC North, but it brings in a much-needed player who can win one-on-one. Smith still has one year left on his contract with $11 million in non-guaranteed money, which likely played a role in the calculation of the deal. He could work well with Hutchinson next year, or Detroit could move on after the season.

The Browns had gotten off to a 2-7 start and were in clear selling mode. First, they broke up with Amari Cooper. Now Smith. Obtaining a fifth-round pick adds to the Browns' growing 2025 pick list (nine, not counting potential compensatory picks). A 32-year-old pass rusher is a surplus weapon for a last-place club in desperate need of an injection of youth.

As Lombardi's hopes grew in Detroit, the Lions had to reschedule to provide frontline help. Brad Holmes did not disappoint.