If the Detroit Lions are serious about bringing back veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, they might need to move fast. According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, multiple contending teams have already checked in on Smith, who remains a free agent and is waiting for the right situation.
Smith, 32, is coming off a strong 2024 season split between the Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions. He played in all 17 games, finishing with nine sacks, 22 solo tackles, and 10 quarterback hits, proving he still has plenty left in the tank as a disruptive edge defender.
Why Smith Makes Sense for Detroit
The Lions’ pass rush runs through Aidan Hutchinson, but beyond him, depth has quickly become an issue. Josh Paschal remains on the sideline with an extended injury, and promising rookie Ahmed Hassanein is dealing with a pectoral issue that may limit his availability this season.
Smith’s presence would not only bring production, but also leadership and postseason experience. He’s a three-time Pro Bowler with 69 career sacks, including back-to-back double-digit sack seasons in Green Bay (2019, 2020).
The Competition is Heating Up
What makes this situation tricky is timing. Smith is in no rush to sign, but interest around the league is picking up. Fowler’s report suggests multiple contenders are circling, and once one team pulls the trigger, the rest may follow.
Detroit has cap space and the motivation, the Lions see themselves as legitimate Super Bowl contenders in 2025. Adding Smith would give defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard another proven weapon to rotate alongside Hutchinson, keeping the unit fresh and aggressive deep into games.
The Bottom Line
The Lions know Za’Darius Smith can still play, they saw it firsthand last season. Now the question is whether Brad Holmes and the front office want to risk waiting while other teams make their moves.
If Detroit wants a reunion, they may have to act quick before Smith finds a new home.
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