The buzz around Za’Darius Smith hasn’t quieted down since the Lions released him ahead of free agency. After putting up an impressive nine sacks in 2024 following his midseason trade to Detroit, fans expected him to be part of the future. Instead, he was let go—and now everyone’s been wondering if a reunion is still in the cards.
Smith has been spotted around Detroit, including at a recent Pistons game, fueling speculation that he might want to run it back in the Motor City. But according to general manager Brad Holmes, things haven’t moved forward since the league meetings a couple weeks ago.
Asked again about Smith’s status during Thursday’s media session, Holmes didn’t offer much hope. “His agent would let us know if things had changed,” Holmes said. “But we haven’t had any discussions since the annual meetings.”
That doesn’t mean the door is completely shut—but it’s definitely not wide open either.
With the NFL Draft approaching, the Lions are under pressure to make a move at edge rusher. Fans have been clamoring for someone to pair with Aidan Hutchinson off the edge. But Holmes made it clear the team won’t draft out of desperation.
“There are some good players at that position,” he said. “Some might go before our pick, some might be available at our pick, there might be an opportunity to trade back.”
As usual, Holmes is sticking to his strategy—no panic moves, no chasing needs. That approach has worked well so far, but with pass rush still a glaring need, fans are anxious to see whether Smith will return or if reinforcements will come through the draft.
Either way, all eyes are on Detroit’s next move.
Za’Darius Smith Still in Limbo as Lions Stay Quiet on Reunion
