Lions and Browns have discussed a Za’Darius Smith trade

The Lions need a defensive end. The Browns need to rebuild their roster by shedding veterans and adding draft picks. The two teams may be able to reach an agreement.

Defensive end Za’Darius Smith could be traded from Cleveland to Detroit amid trade talks between the two clubs, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The Lions have been plagued by injuries to their defensive line, particularly to defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who was the favorite to win the NFL defensive player of the year award when he lost with a broken leg. They could use a defensive end as they continue their pursuit of the Super Bowl, and Smith could be a logical candidate.

The 32-year-old Smith started all eight games for the Browns this year and recorded five sacks. Smith’s base salary is just $1.2 million this season and the Lions could easily add him and stay well under the salary cap.