Lions Urged to Bring Back Za’Darius Smith After Draft Leaves Pass Rush Thin

The Detroit Lions addressed several needs during the 2025 NFL Draft, but pass rush help still remains a big question mark.

Despite entering the draft with a clear need at defensive end, the Lions didn’t select one until the sixth round, when they grabbed Boise State standout Ahmed Hassanein. While Hassanein shows promise and fits the team’s gritty culture, he’s still a rookie with a lot to prove before he can be counted on for major contributions.

That leaves Detroit with unfinished business heading into the next phase of the offseason. General manager Brad Holmes even hinted after the draft that more moves could be on the way.

“It’s an ongoing, non-stop, relentless climb for building a roster,” Holmes said. “We’re always trying to look to get better… I definitely would not be doing my job if I did not continually look at every single avenue.”

One obvious move still on the table? Bringing back veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith.

Smith, who joined Detroit midseason in 2024 via trade from the Cleveland Browns, quickly fit into the Lions’ locker room and added four sacks down the stretch. Beyond his on-field production, Smith’s leadership and experience were invaluable for a young defense still coming into its own.

Re-signing Smith would give Detroit a proven edge presence while buying time for young players like Hassanein to develop. Even better, the Lions may now have an unexpected edge in recruiting him back.

After the draft, the Lions signed undrafted free agent wide receiver Jackson Meeks, who previously played at Georgia and Syracuse. What makes this notable? Meeks is Smith’s nephew — and Smith didn’t waste time congratulating him on landing in Detroit.

It’s not hard to imagine that family ties could influence Smith’s free agency decision. Finishing his career alongside his nephew could be an emotional draw, and the Lions should absolutely capitalize on that opportunity.

Smith showed in 2024 that he can still be an impact player. With the Lions looking for just a little more punch off the edge, a reunion makes too much sense to ignore.