ESPN BREAKING NEWS: Lions are reportedly on the verge of siging $42 million defensive end in Edge Rush ‘Overhaul’

The Detroit Lions’ defence improved significantly in 2023, although their pass rush was often inconsistent.

With the Lions expected to restructure their edge-rushing corps this offseason, USA Today’s Jeff Risdon believes a three-time Pro Bowler would be a natural addition as a counterbalance to standout Aidan Hutchinson. Risdon suggested that former Cleveland Browns edge rusher Za’Darius Smith could be an “under-the-radar” addition to replace some of the seasoned leadership the Lions would lose this offseason.

Lions tap to add ‘Productive’ Risdon anticipates substantial changes to the Lions’ pass-rushing group this offseason, as numerous veterans are anticipated to leave in free agency.

“With the Lions rebuilding the EDGE position—Julian Okwara is already in Philadelphia, and both his brother Romeo and Charles Harris are free agents—the Lions could be in the market for a more productive veteran hoping for one more shot at a Super Bowl. Risdon wrote, “That’s Smith.”

Risdon observed that Smith appeared to be receiving minimal attention ahead of the start of free agency in March, particularly for a player who has had 15.5 sacks over the last two seasons. This could be due in part to Smith’s dropoff in 2023, when he had only 5.5 sacks and 27 total tackles despite playing alongside the more productive Myles Garrett.