Za’Darius Smith is hoping for a chance to return to the Detroit Lions for the 2025 season. After the team’s disappointing finish to the 2024 campaign, the veteran defensive end, formerly with the Cleveland Browns, shared his appreciation for his time in Detroit. He took to social media to express his gratitude, saying, “Motor City, 2024 didn’t go as planned at all; we fell short of the outcome we had planned for! 2025 gives us another opportunity to adjust and go for that championship! I enjoyed every moment with my boys, and even though some faces have changed for the new season, I hope to be a part of this great organization for the future!”
General manager Brad Holmes recently discussed the difficulty of acquiring Smith mid-season, admitting it was one of the most challenging player acquisitions he’s experienced. Holmes noted that, due to roster depth and high demand for pass rushers across the league, finding a suitable candidate was tough. He mentioned how the market for available pass rushers shrinks significantly, especially as teams are wary of trading away crucial defensive players during the season. Despite these challenges, Holmes emphasized that Smith stood out as one of the few available players who could contribute immediately at a high level, making him a valuable addition to the team.
