The Cleveland Browns made the unpopular decision to trade the NFL's best pass rusher on June 1. They still have an above-average unit even without Myles Garrett, but they will need a team effort to make up for his elite production.
While Jared Verse is a lock to be the undisputed starter on one side of the line, defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg might need more bodies and different profiles for his edge-rushing group. That's why they turned to a familiar face and tried to bring back Za'Darius Smith.
Smith retired five games into the 2025 season with the Philadelphia Eagles before returning as a free agent this offseason. He worked out for the Browns last week but ultimately signed with his former coach Kevin Stefanski and the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday.
For Cleveland, the failed pursuit speaks volumes about its concerns over the team's depth.
The Cleveland Browns’ search for a veteran edge rusher continues
While Smith is a proven commodity in the league, turning to a 33-year-old who missed most of last season reeks of desperation. The Browns have also attempted to sign A.J. Epenesa (failed physical) and more recently Jadeveon Clowney (signed with the Texans).
The Browns' preseason loss to the Chicago Bears showed how huge the gap is between the team's first- and second-team defense. That includes the defensive end rotation, even with Julian Okwara logging a one-handed sack.
Alex Wright and Isaiah McGuire have shown they can handle rotational roles on the edge. They should have a similar role working with Verse. However, this team could be an injury away from an absolute catastrophe in that department.
Defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg will keep most of Jim Schwartz's defensive principles, though he will be more aggressive and give defensive backs more freedom. As such, generating organic pressure at the line of scrimmage will be paramount to their success.
Mason Graham is expected to take a leap after a somewhat up-and-down rookie season, and he recently hinted at potentially having more sack opportunities with Garrett gone. Then again, he still has to prove it on the field.
Smith had 5.5 sacks in 16 games for the Browns in 2023 and five sacks in nine games in 2024 before being traded to the Detroit Lions. He's a three-time Pro Bowler with 70.5 sacks and 176 quarterback hits over 11 years, and he could have provided some solid mentorship for the Browns' young pass rushers.
As to whether he still has what it takes to make a meaningful impact emains to be seen. For now, it looks like this team remains unsettled at the position.
Finding a better option this late in the offseason won't be easy. Veterans options like Haason Reddick, Kyle Van Noy, and the likely-retiring Joey Bosa are the biggest names still on the market.
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