The Detroit Lions have suffered their first big hit of the season—and it’s a painful one. Defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike is officially out for the year with a torn ACL, dealing a serious blow to Detroit’s depth up front.
The 2021 second-round pick had just started to flash real potential after battling back injuries early in his career. He was seen as a valuable rotational piece heading into this season. But now, with Onwuzurike sidelined again, the Lions are staring at a familiar dilemma—and the solution seems just as familiar: Za’Darius Smith.
Smith, who played well for Detroit last season after arriving via trade from the Browns, is still a free agent. He made it clear he enjoyed his time in Motown and has kept the door open for a possible return. With training camp underway and injuries already reshaping depth charts across the league, the Lions would be wise not to wait.
Sure, head coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence in the team’s current options, highlighting rookie Tyleik Williams, Josh Paschal, and a potential return from Alim McNeill. But relying heavily on unproven or recovering players could backfire, especially with a grueling schedule ahead.
If Detroit wants to stay aggressive and avoid a snowball effect on their D-line, this is the moment to act. Bringing back Smith wouldn’t just fill a gap—it’d send a message that the Lions are still all-in for a deep run in 2025.
No more waiting. Levi’s injury just made the next move crystal clear.
Onwuzurike Done for the Year, But a Monster Upgrade Is Just One Call Away
