With the NFL trade deadline looming, the Baltimore Ravens have focused their attention on a potential defensive upgrade: Za’Darius Smith. Known for his disruptive pass-rushing skills, Smith could be a crucial addition to a Baltimore defense that has struggled to generate consistent pressure this season. Adding Smith, who began his NFL career with the Ravens, would be a homecoming of sorts and could significantly bolster Baltimore’s front seven.
Smith’s unique skill set allows him to rush the quarterback effectively from both the edge and interior positions, providing precisely the versatility Baltimore’s defense currently lacks. However, there’s a substantial obstacle in the way: the Detroit Lions.
As a rising contender in the NFC, the Detroit Lions are also in the market for a pass-rusher. ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently suggested on *Get Up* that Detroit could be targeting a move to strengthen their defense, particularly to offset the loss of star Aidan Hutchinson, who is currently sidelined due to injury.
Head coach Dan Campbell has not ruled out the possibility of an aggressive trade, and with the Lions leading the NFC North, they appear ready to pursue a top pass-rushing addition to push for a deep postseason run. Given Smith’s impact potential, the Lions have made him a priority, and it’s likely that the Cleveland Browns, Smith’s current team, might prefer to trade him out of the AFC North—making Detroit an appealing trade partner over divisional rival Baltimore.
For the Ravens, acquiring Smith would be a seamless fit. He’s familiar with Baltimore’s system, meaning he could quickly integrate and immediately boost the team’s third-down defense. He would also relieve some pressure from veterans like Kyle Van Noy and young talents like Odafe Oweh. However, the Lions’ draft capital and playoff aspirations position them as strong competition in the Smith sweepstakes.
Should the Lions outmaneuver Baltimore for Smith, the Ravens would need to explore alternative options. Potential candidates include former Ravens like Calais Campbell or Jadeveon Clowney, though neither offers the same immediate impact as Smith. Missing out on Smith could leave Baltimore scrambling for ways to reinforce a defense that has struggled to close out games effectively.
While Baltimore has made other moves to bolster its playoff push, including the acquisition of wide receiver Diontae Johnson, adding another pass-rushing threat remains crucial. If Detroit ultimately wins the bid for Smith, the Ravens may face a missed opportunity to secure a key defensive upgrade in their pursuit of postseason success.
