NFL insider has ‘logical’ trade target if Buccaneers are looking for pass rush help

We're just a week away from the NFL trade deadline, and already there has been a flurry of activity across the league. Three top wide receivers have been dealt, with DeAndre Hopkins, Amari Cooper, and Davante Adams all changing teams.

On Monday the Chiefs made the first big defensive trade, adding Patriots linebacker Joshua Uche for a 2026 draft pick.

Both of those positions are ones the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could use some help at, as fans urge the team to do something to get things back on track. Trades aren't typically what Jason Licht deals in since he likes his draft picks and knows how to use them, but there's one name on the market that might potentially change his mind.

Adam Schefter identifies 'logical' trade target who could make sense for Buccaneers

Two names that have been kicked around are Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett, two of the most premier pass rushers in the league. Las Vegas has reportedly pulled Crosby's name out of the rumor mill, but it might be Garrett's teammate in Cleveland who the Bucs might want to take a look at.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Za'Darius Smith is a name to keep an eye on as someone who might get moved before the deadline. He's a guy who Schefter thinks makes 'logical' sense as a target for a team looking to fill that need, which should perk up some ears in Tampa Bay.

"One of the most logical trade targets is the Browns ' former Pro Bowl defensive end Za'Darius  , who has drawn some attention across the league," Schefter reported. "Smith has the résumé, talent and a friendly enough salary this season to make him attractive to other teams, and league sources said they would not be surprised to see the Browns deal him before the deadline."

Smith would fill an immediate need for the Bucs, as pass rush has been one of the weaker spots on a defense that is struggling mightily. Tampa Bay needs to figure out some linebacker depth and right now K.J. Britt isn't cutting with no viable options behind him.

Adding Smith could help alleviate that while also adding some serious pass rush to perhaps turn things around. The Bucs' defense has been a total liability this season, something that has fans calling for Todd Bowles to be fired.

He's done plenty wrong this season, but it's not his fault the defense has been ransacked by the injury bug. Someone like Smith might go a long way in plugging some holes and giving the defense some new life.

There are two potential hangups. Cleveland pulled off an upset win on Sunday and might not be so quick to trade guys if they think they can get back into the playoff race. On the flipside, Licht doesn't usually part ways with draft picks, which makes it unlikely he'll budge on that stance to add Smith.

Doing so would make the defense better, thought.

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