3 things Za'Darius Smith brings to the Cleveland Browns

3 things Za’Darius Smith brings to the Cleveland Browns

By Chad Porto | May 14, 2023

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 05: LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 05: NFC outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on during an NFL Pro Bowl football game at Allegiant Stadium on February 05, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 01: Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Minnesota Vikings anticipates a play during a game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on January 01, 2023 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers defeated the Vikings 41-17. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

Za’Darius Smith should free up Myles Garrett

One of the more used talked about things in Cleveland from year to year is why Myles Garrett isn’t being a bigger impact player against opposing defenses, despite his advanced stats claiming he’s unstoppable. The excuse has been “he’s double-teamed more than anyone”, and that’s not really a lie. There might be a guy or two more double-teamed, but I understand the argument.

That’s an argument that no longer exists, as Za’Darius Smith’s arrival now makes it very clear what’s expected from Garrett; total domination and nothing less. Smith is about as elite as it gets as a pass-rusher as a 30-year-old in the NFL. He’s hard to stop, versatile, and can play with his hand down or up in a two-point stance.

He’s going to be a force for every team in the NFL assuming he’s healthy and fit. If he is, then there is no excuse for Garrett to not have 20+ sacks, a few picks, 50+ tackles, and a Defensive Player of the Year award.

On the plus side, Smith has a chance to get back to the Pro Bowl and raise his value in the 2024 offseason, where he’s more than likely going to leave Cleveland for a huge payday, regardless of the team’s record.

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