By Sunday 
Sometimes the best move in football is the one you don’t make — and the Detroit Lions just proved it again.
When veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith hit free agency, fans were banging the table for a reunion. After all, Smith looked like the perfect fix opposite Aidan Hutchinson last season. But Brad Holmes didn’t bite — and now, after Smith’s sudden retirement, that decision looks downright prophetic.
💰 The Contract That Said “No Thanks”
Let’s be real — the Smith deal was messy from the jump. His contract with the Browns was a financial Rubik’s cube full of void years, bonus traps, and dead money landmines. The Lions poked around at restructuring it, but when things didn’t line up, Holmes did what most GMs are too scared to do — he walked away.
And cue the outrage. Fans and pundits called it short-sighted. Twitter had takes flying everywhere about how Detroit was “wasting Hutchinson’s prime.” Fast forward a few months… yeah, about that.
⚙️ While Smith Waited, Detroit Worked
While Smith sat on the sidelines waiting for the “right deal,” the Lions got to work. No drama, no headline-chasing — just building.
Enter Al-Quadin Muhammad, the guy nobody was talking about in August who’s now got 4.5 sacks and 18 pressures. The defense hasn’t missed a beat. In fact, they’ve looked more cohesive, more physical, and more dialed in than they did with Smith.
Meanwhile, Smith waited out training camp (probably on purpose), joined the Eagles late, and quietly logged a 38% snap share through six games. Respectable numbers, sure — but not exactly game-changing.
🚨 Then Boom — He’s Done
Out of nowhere, Smith posts on Instagram: he’s retiring. No big farewell tour, no leaks from insiders — just poof. Gone.
And that’s where Holmes’ decision comes full circle. Had the Lions brought Smith back, they’d be scrambling for another edge right now. Instead, they’re sitting pretty with depth, production, and zero distractions.
It’s almost like Holmes saw it coming.
🧠 Brad Holmes: Cold. Calculated. Correct.
This is what separates Brad Holmes from the pack. The man doesn’t operate on fan hype or ESPN narratives — he reads the room, trusts his instincts, and plays the long game.
He knew Smith was still talented, but maybe not locked in. Detroit’s culture under Dan Campbell doesn’t run on half-commitments. You’re either in or you’re out. Smith’s delayed signing, his training camp dodge, his quick retirement — all red flags that Holmes clearly picked up on.
Now? He looks like the smartest guy in the room. Again.
🦁 The Final Word
Za’Darius Smith didn’t burn out — he just ran out of gas. The Lions, meanwhile, are running full throttle.
What looked like a missed opportunity in March turned into another example of Holmes and Campbell knowing exactly who they are and what they want. They’re not chasing names anymore — they’re chasing fit.
Detroit didn’t just dodge a bullet… they sidestepped a whole cannonball.