There has not been a lot of continuity on the defensive line of the Cleveland Browns opposite Myles Garrett. But it appears the Browns do have interest in trying to create some with an impending unrestricted free agent. Cleveland will attempt to bring back veteran defensive Za’Darius Smith, per a report from Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.
Smith appeared in 16 of 17 games last year for the Browns but was not able to reach double-digit sacks in almost a full season for the first time since 2018. In fact, Smith’s 5.5 sacks last year since 2017’s total of 3.5 when appearing in 14 or more games. Some of this is to be expected when playing on the other side of the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. However, a little more production would be preferable, so it is not all on Garrett to do everything himself.
The biggest obstacle for Cleveland appears to be salary, as noted by Cabot. “The Browns would love to re-sign defensive end Za’Darius Smith, but he’ll likely hit the market next month and let free agency help determine his price.”.
This is not unfamiliar territory for Cleveland. There have been a few occasions in the past few years with situations playing out in a nearly identical manner. A player explores free agency, and eventually, general manager Andrew Berry says something publicly about financial figures that have to match, and that player usually ends up signing elsewhere. Perhaps things play out differently this time with Smith, but Cleveland’s recent track record suggests otherwise.
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