Za’Darius Smith has an opportunity to set a franchise record with the Detroit Lions As He Joins The Team Friday..
The Detroit Lions made a much-anticipated move to strengthen their pass rush before the trade deadline by acquiring veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns.
To bring Smith to Detroit, the Lions exchanged draft picks with the Browns, adding a major boost to their pass rush, especially after losing Marcus Davenport and Aidan Hutchinson to serious injuries. This move also bolsters Detroit’s strong prospects for a Super Bowl run.
The day after the trade, head coach Dan Campbell announced that Smith will have a few days off before joining practice. This extra rest was planned to help the 32-year-old recover, as he didn’t get a bye week with the Browns before the trade (Cleveland’s bye is in Week 10).
It remains to be seen if Smith will play, but if he does, he’ll have a chance to make franchise history with his new team.
Smith appeared in nine games with the Browns before being traded, and if he plays in Week 10 and continues through the rest of the season, he’ll participate in 18 regular-season games in 2024—a milestone no Lions player has ever achieved.
While a handful of players played 18 games in a season up until 1930, only one player has done so since. Last season, Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Leonard Williams played in 18 games, suiting up for eight with the New York Giants before joining Seattle for the final 10.
Opportunities for players to achieve this feat have been limited in recent times, as the NFL only transitioned to an 18-week schedule a few years ago.
Along with Za’Darius Smith, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Williams and edge rusher Preston Smith also have a chance to play in 18 games this season.
Smith’s potential journey to history could start when the Lions face the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in Week 10.