NFL Trade Rumors: Za'Darius Smith a 'Hot Name'; Browns Want 'Really Good' Day 3 Pick

Cleveland Browns defensive end Za'Darius Smith is a "hot name" right now as the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, who added the team wants a "really good Day 3 pick" in return.

"He is a hot name right now," Fowler told SportsCenter.

"The Detroit Lions desperately need a pass-rusher after injuries. The teams I've talked to believe the Browns want a really good Day 3 pick for Smith, so maybe a fourth-rounder or so would probably get it done. But I'm told the Browns are open to keeping him to because they have him under contract for two years and he's been playing well for them. A name to watch, could be moved at the deadline."

The 32-year-old is a 10-year NFL veteran and has amassed a team-high five sacks for the Browns this season.

The Detroit Lions are an obvious trading partner for the Browns. Star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson suffered a fractured fibula and tibia and is expected to miss the entire season, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. The NFC-leading 6-1 Lions could use reinforcements as they aim for a first Super Bowl in franchise history, so Smith could be an option here.

Hutchinson was having a phenomenal season, amassing 7.5 sacks and 17 quarterback hits in just five games. No other Lion has more than 2.5 sacks or seven QB hits. While Smith won't replace his production (few pass-rushers could), he's exceptional in his own right and would be a huge pickup for a team in need of help.

As Fowler said, though, the Browns could just keep Smith, who is under contract through 2025. He is one of the team's best defensive players. And while the team is likely missing the playoffs at 2-6, it's getting some momentum in its sails after a dramatic 29-24 win over the 5-3 Baltimore Ravens last Sunday under quarterback Jameis Winston, who made his first career start in Cleveland.

The Browns could keep Smith and hope for a strong second half to the season and maybe an outside shot at a wild-card berth.

At any rate, Smith is a key name to watch as the trade deadline approaches. Wide receivers have moved frequently in recent days, including Amari Cooper, who went from Cleveland to the Buffalo Bills. Perhaps a pass-rusher goes soon now, with Smith's name mentioned here.