The Detroit Lions still have a big hole to fill on defense, and there’s a familiar face who’s made it loud and clear he wants to fill it.
Three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith, who was traded to Detroit last season to help spark the pass rush after Aidan Hutchinson went down, is still waiting for the call to return. Despite playing well during his short stint, the Lions released him in the offseason to clear cap space.
But Smith hasn’t moved on. He recently told USA Today—while attending the BET Awards, no less—that he wants back in. “We both know where I want to be,” Smith said. “Hopefully I can get back to Detroit… when I’m there I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things.”
This isn’t a new message either. Back in January, Smith posted on Instagram about wanting to stay, and even had a Lions Super Bowl ring made for himself. That’s commitment.
The issue? Money. GM Brad Holmes said earlier in the offseason that Detroit couldn’t afford to keep him. But with Smith still unsigned and the offseason moving along, the numbers might be more manageable now.
The Lions haven’t signed another edge rusher, and Hutchinson is still the only proven threat off the edge. If Detroit is serious about chasing a Super Bowl in 2025, bringing back Smith just makes too much sense.
He’s ready. The door is open. Now it’s up to the front office to walk through it.
Za’Darius Smith Still Wants Back in Detroit — and the Lions Should Make It Happen
