The Detroit Lions could soon reunite with one of last season’s key contributors. Veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, who helped stabilize the Lions’ defense after Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending injury, remains unsigned — and Detroit appears very much in the mix.
According to Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports, the Lions have kept lines of communication open with Smith and his representatives since releasing him in a salary-cap move earlier this offseason. Lions general manager Brad Holmes reportedly last spoke with Smith before April’s league meetings, but the team is waiting to see how free agency unfolds on the player’s end.
Smith, who notched 4.0 sacks in limited time with Detroit, has expressed a strong desire to return. At the BET Awards in June, he told USA Today that his goal is to play in Detroit again, citing his connection with the coaching staff and the team’s culture. Despite his clear interest, there have been no reports of visits or serious talks with other teams.
With Hutchinson expected back at full strength for training camp later this month, adding another proven edge rusher like Smith could give Detroit a fierce one-two punch on the outside. ESPN’s Matt Bowen recently highlighted the Lions as a top destination for Smith, pointing out their need for a veteran presence opposite Hutchinson after only drafting one edge rusher in April.
The Lions’ defense sputtered late last season, notably giving up 45 points in a playoff loss to the Commanders while failing to record a sack. Bolstering the pass rush will be essential if Detroit hopes to secure a third consecutive NFC North crown and make a deeper postseason run — especially now that former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has moved on to coach the New York Jets.
With training camp fast approaching, the next couple of weeks could determine whether Smith suits up again in the Motor City.
