Za’Darius Smith suffered knee contusion, ESPN confirms he will back in octomber hopefully
Cleveland Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith experienced a setback during Monday’s practice when he had to exit early due to a knee injury. Fortunately, the injury appears to be less severe than initially feared. According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, subsequent tests revealed that Smith suffered only a knee contusion. This diagnosis is relatively mild compared to more serious knee injuries and suggests that Smith should recover with adequate rest and rehabilitation.
Smith, who is 31 years old, is gearing up for his second season with the Browns. In his debut year with the team, he made a notable impact on their defensive line. Over the course of the 2023 season, he accumulated 5.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss, and 20 quarterback hits in 16 games. His performance was a key component of the Browns’ defensive strategy and was instrumental in their efforts to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Smith’s career has been marked by consistent performance across multiple teams. Before joining the Browns, he had notable stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings. Across these teams, Smith has amassed a total of 60.0 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt offensive plays and apply pressure on quarterbacks. His experience and production make him a valuable asset to the Browns’ defensive lineup.
In response to Smith’s injury and to bolster their defensive depth, the Browns have signed defensive end Marcus Haynes. Haynes, who joins the team following Smith’s injury, is expected to provide additional support on the defensive front. This move underscores the Browns’ commitment to maintaining a strong defensive presence, especially given the potential impact of Smith’s absence, however short it may be.
Overall, while Za’Darius Smith’s knee contusion is a cause for concern, the positive news from his medical evaluation is reassuring. With proper rest and treatment, Smith should be able to return to full strength and continue to contribute significantly to the Browns’ defensive efforts. In the meantime, the addition of Marcus Haynes to the roster will help ensure that the team remains well-equipped to handle any challenges that arise during the upcoming season.
