There hasn't been much continuity on the Cleveland Browns defensive line opposite Myles Garrett. However, the Browns appear to be interested in acquiring the impending unrestricted free agent. According to a report from Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Cleveland will look to bring back veteran defensive end Darius Smith.
Smith played in 16 of 17 games for the Browns last year, but failed to reach double-digit sacks in nearly a full season for the first time since 2018. In fact, Smith's 5.5 sacks last year were his first since appearing in 2017 when he totaled 3.5 sacks. Over 14 games. Some of this is to be expected when playing opposite the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year. However, there's no need for Garrett to do everything himself, as a little more production would be preferable.
As Cabot pointed out, salary seems to be the biggest hurdle for Cleveland. “The Browns would like to re-sign defensive end Za'Darius Smith, but will likely hit the market next month to set a price on free agency.”.
This is not unfamiliar territory for Cleveland. There have been several times over the past few years where the situation has played out in much the same way. A player explores free agency, general manager Andrew Berry eventually says something publicly about the financial numbers to match, and the player usually ends up signing with another club. Perhaps things will play out differently with Smith this time around, but Cleveland's recent track record suggests otherwise.