Mic'd Up: Browns’ Za’Darius Smith Praises Cleveland Fans

The Cleveland Browns enter their matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders with a 1-2 record and are looking to rebound after a brutal 21-15 loss to the New York Giants. The team’s defense has been its backbone, keeping games close despite offensive struggles. With key players like quarterback Deshaun Watson still finding their footing, the defense has shouldered much of the load early in the season.

Defensive end Za'Darius Smith, however, took a moment to appreciate the unwavering support of the Cleveland fanbase before their Week 3 game against the New York Giants.

While mic’d up on the field before the game, Smith didn’t hesitate to express his admiration for Browns fans.

“Best fans in the world.” Said Smith, “We’ve been to a couple of places, but they don’t get better than the Cleveland Browns.”

His words came just before the Browns’ defense put up a tough fight in what turned out to be a 21-15 loss to the Giants, a game in which the Cleveland offense struggled once again to find its rhythm.

Through three games, Smith has been a key contributor to the Browns’ defensive unit , posting seven tackles and two sacks. With star defensive end Myles Garrett dealing with a foot injury, Smith’s leadership has helped the Browns hold opponents to an average of 187 passing yards and 113 rushing yards per game. Garrett’s return is uncertain, making Smith’s role even more critical as Cleveland’s defense continues to be its strongest asset.

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As the Browns gear up for Week 4 against a Las Vegas Raiders team that ranks last in rushing yards, Smith and the defense will once again be called upon to help carry the load. Despite struggles on the offensive side of the ball—where Cleveland ranks in the bottom third in rushing and passing yards—the team hopes to deliver for the fans.