The Detroit Lions used NFL free agency to improve their secondary, but the pass rush has remained mostly unaffected this offseason. While the 2025 NFL Draft will most certainly see Detroit add to their pass-rushing arsenal, another possibility is being chased on the open market.
Detroit spent the majority of its free-agent money on cornerback D.J. Reed, who replaced Carlton Davis. The team also signed former Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Avonte Maddox and former San Francisco 49ers defensive back Rock Ya-Sin.
With the secondary solved, the trenches stand out as one of the Lions’ most pressing draft concerns. Detroit is anticipated to use one of its first three draft picks on an offensive lineman, but it also appears to be looking for pass-rushing help. However, there is a seasoned option still available in free agency who is firmly on the team’s radar.
Justin Rogers of Detroitfootballnet reported from the NFL owners’ meetings that the Lions are still in contact with edge rusher Za’Darius Smith regarding a possible reunion.
Smith, 32, was acquired by Detroit prior to the NFL trade deadline last season. He played in nine games with the club, including the playoffs, before becoming a cap casualty this winter.
Za’Darius Smith stats (ESPN): 17 quarterback hits, 9 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, and one pass deflection in
Smith, 33, remains a strong rotational pass rusher. Last season, he generated 25 pressures in 618 defensive snaps while playing 17 games for Detroit and the Cleveland Browns. Signing Smith would also allow the Lions to use an early draft pick on an edge rusher.
While a contract is not expected to be reached soon, Smith is interested in returning to the Lions. He could potentially be more effective with the Lions’ defense in 2025, when Aidan Hutchinson returns.
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