By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions made a clear push to upgrade their secondary during NFL free agency, but when it comes to improving their pass rush, things have been pretty quiet. While the 2025 NFL Draft will likely be the stage where Detroit adds firepower to its defensive line, the team is also eyeing help from a familiar face in free agency.
Detroit’s biggest splash in free agency came when they signed cornerback D.J. Reed, who’s expected to step in for Carlton Davis. On top of that, the Lions brought in Avonte Maddox, formerly of the Eagles, and Rock Ya-Sin, who spent time with the 49ers. With the secondary now shored up, attention is turning to the trenches.
Heading into the draft, one of Detroit’s top priorities is clearly the offensive line, and reports suggest they’re likely to use one of their top three picks to bolster it. But the defensive front—specifically the edge rusher spot—isn’t being ignored either.
According to Justin Rogers of DetroitFootball.net, the Lions are keeping the door open for a reunion with veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith. Rogers reported from the NFL owners’ meetings that “the Lions remain in contact” with Smith about a possible return.
Smith, now 32, joined Detroit last season in a midseason trade. He went on to appear in nine games, including playoff action, before being released due to salary cap considerations.
Despite his age, Smith proved he’s still got something left in the tank. Across 17 games with both the Lions and Browns last year, he posted 25 total pressures over 618 defensive snaps, along with 17 quarterback hits, 9 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, and 1 pass deflection.
Looking ahead to 2025, Smith could still play a valuable rotational role in Detroit’s defense. Bringing him back wouldn’t stop the Lions from drafting a younger edge rusher, but it would add veteran depth and leadership to the mix.
While there’s no deal on the table just yet, Smith is reportedly open to rejoining the team. And with Aidan Hutchinson returning to lead the defensive charge, Smith’s presence could make the unit even more dangerous this fall.