By Moses Joshua 
Experienced edge rusher still chasing a ring—and a return to a team he calls home
A Familiar Face Still on the Market
Za’Darius Smith, one of the most productive veteran pass rushers still available in free agency, isn’t shy about where he wants to land next: back in Detroit. After being released earlier this offseason in a salary-cap clearing move, the 32-year-old defender is hoping the Lions’ front office will open the door for a reunion.
“We both know where I want to be,” Smith told USA TODAY’s Tyler Dragon. “Hopefully I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great. When I’m there, I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things.”
Smith’s Short But Impactful Stint in Detroit
Smith joined the Lions midway through the 2024 season, brought in to bolster a defense that was rapidly losing depth to injuries. Despite his late arrival, he made his presence felt—posting four sacks, 12 total tackles, and one pass deflection across eight games.
Even more than the stats, Smith offered what Detroit needed most: edge-setting experience, locker room leadership, and relentless pressure off the snap. Though no longer in his prime, he proved he can still collapse the pocket and disrupt the run game with consistency.
A Veteran with One Goal in Mind
For Smith, the drive to return to Detroit isn’t just sentimental—it’s strategic. Entering his 11th NFL season, the two-time Pro Bowler has done nearly everything but hoist the Lombardi Trophy. His eyes are now fixed solely on completing the journey with a Super Bowl ring.
“I’m going into Year 11. As a veteran, [a championship] is the only thing that I’m missing,” Smith said. “I did the sacks, All-Pro, Pro Bowl, so it’s really just me getting a ring now and winning a championship.”
It’s clear that Smith isn’t looking for a rebuilding project. He wants to contribute to a contender—and the Lions, fresh off a playoff push and loaded with young talent, still fit that mold.
A Logical Fit for a Rotational Role
While the Lions retained Marcus Davenport and continue to see positive signs from star edge Aidan Hutchinson’s recovery, depth remains a concern. Detroit’s only pass-rushing addition in the 2025 draft came in the sixth round with the selection of Ahmed Hassanein—hardly a plug-and-play solution.
In this context, Smith makes sense. As a rotational presence behind Hutchinson and Davenport, he would not only bring production, but also mentorship to a still-developing defensive front. His familiarity with the team’s system and coaching staff gives him a leg up compared to most free agents on the market.
Waiting for the Right Moment
With many teams now entrenched in minicamps, Smith may have to wait until closer to training camp—or even beyond Week 1—before signing. Veteran salaries aren’t guaranteed past the season opener, which often prompts front offices to play the long game with experienced players.
Still, Smith isn’t just another aging defender clinging to a spot. He’s a proven producer with leadership intangibles and clear ties to a team that could use what he brings.
Whether the Lions pull the trigger and bring him back remains to be seen. But Smith’s message is loud and clear: he’s ready, he’s motivated, and he knows exactly where he wants to be.