The Detroit Lions have to add another pass rusher to the roster to help out Aidan Hutchinson, and they are predicted to finally address the position by making a long-awaited move.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz predicts the Lions will reunite with Za’Darius Smith before the 2025 NFL season kicks off.
It was a surprise when the Lions didn’t draft an edge rusher until Boise State’s Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round. So why not bring back a veteran who wants to be there?
Smith, who was traded to the Lions from the Cleveland Browns during the trade deadline last year, was released by Detroit in March. He tallied nine sacks and 63 quarterback pressures in 2024 and gave the Lions’ pass rush a nice boost after Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury in Week 6.
In a recent interview with USA Today at the 2025 BET Awards, Smith stated that he hopes to be back in Detroit.
“Hopefully I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great. When I’m there I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things. Hopefully I can get back to where I want to be in Detroit,” Smith said to USA Today.
If Smith wants to return, the Lions should also pursue a reunion. The 32-year-old would provide adequate production as a complementary pass rusher opposite Hutchinson, and his veteran leadership would also be incredibly valuable.
Additionally, Detroit has a ton of cap space remaining ($40.1 million), and Smith shouldn’t be too expensive to sign. Bringing back the three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher is a no-brainer for the Lions and general manager Brad Holmes.
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