The Detroit Lions traded for defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns just before Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline as they look to strengthen their Super Bowl chances.

In exchange, Detroit sent a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick to Cleveland, along with acquiring a 2026 seventh-round pick, according to NFL Network.

The trade was finalized ahead of the 4 p.m. Eastern Time deadline, after which no more trades can occur until the start of the new league year on March 12.

Smith has recorded five sacks in nine games this season for the Browns, after being traded from the Minnesota Vikings prior to the 2023 season, where he posted 5.5 sacks. The 32-year-old brings valuable pass-rush ability to Detroit as they aim for a Super Bowl appearance, especially with star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson out for the rest of the year due to a fractured tibia and fibula. Smith has accumulated 65 sacks over a 10-year career, with previous stints at the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Vikings, and Browns. His standout season came in 2019 with Green Bay, when he tallied 13.5 sacks and 55 tackles.

Detroit’s defense has registered 20 sacks this season and ranks 10th in pressure rate, according to Pro Football Reference. However, they sit 22nd in total yards allowed, 29th in pass defense, 7th against the run, and 6th in scoring defense.

Led by Jared Goff, the Lions’ offense has helped establish them as NFC Super Bowl contenders, despite falling short in last season’s Conference Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers. Smith’s arrival bolsters their defensive line, providing a much-needed veteran presence as general manager Brad Holmes looks to maximize his team’s strong performance in the first half of the season.