By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions’ season didn’t exactly start on the brightest note, dropping a tough one against the Packers. And if you’re a Lions fan, the sting might feel even sharper watching a familiar face — Za’Darius Smith — smiling in Eagles green.
A Lions Favorite Heads to Philly
Smith, who made a name for himself as a fan-favorite in Detroit, won’t be suiting up at Ford Field this season. Instead, the veteran defensive end inked a deal with the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. And judging by his first interview, he’s already loving life in Philly.
“I Just Felt Comfortable in Philly”
When asked about his decision, Smith didn’t hold back:
“I had a lot of teams calling, but I just felt comfortable with coming to Philly,” he said.
He praised the organization, the locker room, and the Eagles’ culture — words that, depending on how you read them, might feel like a not-so-subtle dig at the Lions.
The One That Got Away?
What stings most is that Smith actually wanted to stay in Detroit. Earlier this year, he openly admitted the Lions were his preferred destination. But the front office didn’t pull the trigger, and now he’s chasing rings elsewhere.
Moving On (But It Hurts)
To be fair, you can’t fault Smith for choosing Philly — they’re built to win now. Still, for Detroit fans, it’s a tough pill to swallow watching a Pro Bowl pass rusher rave about another team’s culture.
At least he didn’t end up in the NFC North, right? Small victories.