For the last few weeks, with the trade deadline drawing nearer and nearer, Lions general manager Brad Holmes had been working the phones in search of help for the roster he constructed, and a pass-rusher to account for the loss of Aidan Hutchinson.

With their season in shambles, the Browns began looking toward the future and traded defensive end Za'Darius Smith to Detroit for a pair of draft picks.

The Detroit Lions have received favorable reviews for making the decision to trade for veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith. With a clear need along the defensive line, Detroit has now added a veteran with a significant amount of experience playing in the NFC North.