Za'Darius Smith's next team has become painfully obvious for the Packers

Za'Darius Smith has wanted revenge on the Green Bay Packers from the moment he left. He spent two seasons with the division rival Minnesota Vikings, and now it seems he wants revenge on them, too.

It's no secret that the Detroit Lions need pass-rush help after losing Aidan Hutchinson for the season. Smith recently told The Chronicle-Telegram that he would enjoy landing in Detroit because he would "get to play Green Bay twice a year and the Vikings twice a year."

Well, now, that possibility may become a reality.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Lions have spoken to the Cleveland Browns about a trade for the three-time Pro Bowler.

Za'Darius Smith to the Lions unfortunately makes too much sense

While many urged the Packers to make a deal to reunite with Smith, it never felt realistic. Unfortunately, a move to Detroit makes far more sense.

The Lions desperately need pass-rushing help. They have a Super Bowl roster but no longer have the league's best edge defender available. Smith won't replace Hutchinson's production entirely, but he would quickly become the Lions' best pass-rusher.

Despite the Browns' struggles this season, Smith has made five sacks and six quarterback hits in the opening eight games. Per PFF, his win percentage on pass-rush snaps is 18.6, which ranks 16th among 164 edge defenders.

Smith can still rush the passer at a high level, and he would make big plays in the Lions' defense.

And the 32-year-old would get one game against the Packers and Vikings later in the season, both at Ford Field, although he would miss the chance to play them at Lambeau Field and U.S. Bank Stadium.

It's unlikely to cost the Lions much, either. The Browns are going nowhere and would likely want to get Smith's contract off their books, although they would still have to pay some of it. A Day 3 pick? It would make sense for both sides, especially the Lions.

While nobody outside of Maxx Crosby or Myles Garrett could realistically replace Hutchinson's production, Smith is a quality pass-rusher and would help fix a significant need in Detroit's defense. He often steps up with sacks at crucial times and could make the difference in a close playoff game.

It makes sense for the Lions, but it wouldn't be an ideal scenario for the Packers or the rest of the NFC North.

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