After just one season with the Minnesota Vikings, veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith has reportedly been traded to the Cleveland Browns.
From the beginning of the 2023 offseason, when he sent out an awkward thank you message on social media to Minnesota Vikings fans, it was clear that Za'Darius Smith wanted out of the Twin Cities after just one year. Well, luckily for Smith, the Vikings have reportedly granted his wish by sending him to the Cleveland Browns on Friday, according to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
The #Vikings are trading three-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Za’Darius Smith to the #Browns, sources tell me and @TomPelissero.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 12, 2023
His reworked deal guarantees him $11.75 million in 2023 and he’ll be a FA next March. Deal negotiated by his new agent @ErikBurkhardt of @RocNationSports. pic.twitter.com/dBld2TfSzp
Za'Darius Smith heading to Cleveland Browns after just one season with Minnesota Vikings
In order to complete the trade with the Browns, Minnesota also had to send over a pair of future late-round draft picks. In exchange for Smith and their draft selections, the Vikings received two future fifth-round picks.
The full trade, per league source:#Browns get:
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 12, 2023
Za'Darius Smith
2025 6th-round pick
2025 7th-roundpick#Vikings get:
2024 5th-round pick
2025 5th-round pick https://t.co/outlkV71ME
The reported departure of Smith is expected to clear more than $12 million in cap space for the Vikings. With the expected parting of running back Dalvin Cook this summer as well, Minnesota could potentially have some extra cash to add one of the top remaining free agents before the 2023 season begins.
In one season with the Vikings, Smith accumulated 44 tackles (15 for a loss), 10 sacks, and 37 pressures.