The Cleveland Browns didn’t end up with the fire sale many expected before the NFL trade deadline. Instead, they made a move in the morning that sent star pass rusher Za’Darius Smith to Detroit Lions.
Of course, the Smith to the Lions trade was something that had been aggressively talked about in recent weeks.
After the Aidan Hutchinson injury, Detroit was immediately expected to land Smith. The Browns and Lions were finally able to meet on the final framework of the deal.
There have been many other rumors circulating in recent days. Myles Garrett even heard his name involved in the rumor mill, but ended up staying with the franchise, as expected.
NFL insider Mike Garafolo spoke out with more detail about the Smith trade and about Garrett’s situation before the trade deadline.
“I guess they were one of the teams that asked about him. I know teams asked about him and the Browns made it crystal clear like, ‘You really have to blow us away with an offer,’ and obviously nobody did.”
Basically, Garafolo is implying that Cleveland was actually open to the idea of trading Garrett. But to be convinced to move on from the face of their franchise, they would have had to receive a monstrous offer.
Garrett has literally become the heart and soul of the Browns. Trading him wouldn’t have made the fanbase very happy.
So far this season, Garrett has put up big numbers again. In nine games, Garrett has compiled 23 total tackles to go along with seven sacks and two forced fumbles. He still plays at an elite level and is historically one of the best pass rushers of all time.
Hopefully, the franchise will be able to build back to being a serious contender again while Garrett is still in his prime. It may take a year or two, but Cleveland still very clearly believes Garrett is a huge key to helping them get back on track.
