Detroit Lions acquire Za'Darius Smith at trade deadline

Former Kentucky standout Za’Darius Smith has had a long and successful career in the NFL rushing the quarterback. The 10th-year veteran will get a legitimate chance at making Super Bowl run at age 32. The former fourth round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft is on the move once again.

The Detroit Lions acquired the former Kentucky standout in a trade with the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday. The NFC North franchise is looking for some more pass rush pop after losing former No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson for the season.

Playing for a disappointing Browns team, Za’Darius Smith recorded 23 tackles, seven QB hits, and five sacks in nine games. Now the EDGE player will be inserted into an organization with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. General manager Brad Holmes made this move for Detroit to give head coach Dan Campbell another piece to add on to what appears to be the best roster in the National Football League. The Lions are all-in on winning a title this season.

Za’Darius Smith will bring extensive playoff experience to Detroit having played in eight postseason games with Baltimore, Green Bay, Minnesota, and Cleveland. Smith has compiled 18 tackles, eight QB hits, and four sacks in the postseason.

Za’Darius Smith will join fellow Kentucky alum Josh Paschal in the defensive line room in the Motor City.