The Cleveland Browns are set to make a major move in free agency, signing Pro Bowl defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Minnesota Vikings, according to an Associated Press source. The move is expected to be finalized on Wednesday, March 13th.
Smith, 28, has been one of the most productive pass rushers in the NFL over the last three seasons. He had a career-high 13.5 sacks in 2019 and was selected to the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career. He also had 8.5 sacks in 2018 and 8 sacks in 2017.
The Browns have been searching for a pass rusher since trading away Olivier Vernon to the New York Giants last season. Smith will be a welcome addition to the Browns’ defense, which ranked 22nd in the league in sacks last season.
Smith is expected to sign a four-year deal worth up to $66 million, with $37 million guaranteed. The deal will make him one of the highest-paid defensive ends in the NFL.
The Browns have been busy this offseason, signing running back Kareem Hunt and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. to long-term deals. With the addition of Smith, the Browns have addressed two of their biggest needs on defense and have put themselves in position to contend for a playoff spot in 2020.
The signing of Smith is a major move for the Browns and shows that they are serious about competing for a championship. Smith is a proven pass rusher and will be a major asset for the Browns’ defense. With Smith in the fold, the Browns should be one of the most improved teams in the NFL next season.
