By Sunday 
Some NFL stories feel like they’ll never end—and the Detroit Lions’ dance with Za’Darius Smith is quickly becoming one of them.
Smith, the fiery pass rusher who made an instant impact after landing in Detroit last season, hasn’t been shy about where he wants to call home in 2025. During the BET Awards, he made his feelings crystal clear:
“Hopefully I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great. When I’m there I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things.”
That’s not just lip service—it’s a veteran saying exactly where he thinks he can make a difference. And who doesn’t love a player who wants to be part of the plan?
🎙️ Brad Holmes Finally Breaks the Silence
Detroit’s general manager Brad Holmes isn’t letting the conversation die either. In a recent chat with 97.1 The Ticket, he opened up about the team’s interest:
“We said we’re gonna keep in contact…sometimes it takes a while for things to get on the same page…There’s obviously still interest there and we’ve been keeping in touch.”
Translation? The Lions aren’t ruling anything out—this reunion is absolutely still on the table.
🛡️ How Would Za’Darius Fit Back Into Detroit’s Defense?
Smith proved in just eight games last year he’s still a difference-maker: 4 sacks, 12 tackles, and a key pass defended. He filled in seamlessly for Aidan Hutchinson when injuries hit, and having him around again could make Detroit’s already improving defensive front even more dangerous.
But let’s keep it real: Detroit’s pass rush is in a good spot. Hutchinson looks even better than he did a year ago, Marcus Davenport is turning heads in camp, and rookie Ahmed Hassanein impressed in preseason action. That means the Lions have some flexibility—they don’t need Smith, but adding him could make a good thing even better.
🤔 So, What’s the Holdup?
Negotiations, folks. The Lions and Smith seem to be playing a bit of a waiting game, seeing how injuries, preseason performances, and roster decisions shake out. Holmes and Smith are in regular contact, but both sides know the fit has to be right—on the field and in the checkbook.
📅 Will It Happen Before Week 1?
While there’s no guarantee, the signs are there: mutual respect, mutual interest, and a shared history of making it work when needed. The Lions have the cap space, and Smith has the desire.
This story isn’t over yet—stay tuned, because if the Lions want extra firepower off the edge, Za’Darius Smith could be the guy to bring it.