Detroit Lions fans have been riding a wave of optimism lately. After years of struggles, the team finally looks like a legitimate contender. But as the 2025 season approaches, there’s one lingering concern that continues to worry supporters: the depth at defensive end.
That concern became especially urgent last season when star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson went down with an injury. The defense took a noticeable hit, and it forced the front office to act. General Manager Brad Holmes managed to bring in veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith via trade—a move that helped stabilize the defense during a crucial stretch of the season.
Smith fit in seamlessly, quickly becoming a key contributor. He’s currently a free agent, but many Lions fans—and Smith himself—would love to see a reunion in Detroit. Smith has openly expressed his desire to return, even telling USA Today during an event with his girlfriend, Detroit rapper Kash Doll, that he feels like a leader with the Lions and hopes to rejoin the team.
Despite that mutual interest, Holmes doesn’t appear to be in a rush to bring Smith back. In a June 12 interview with Chris Long, Holmes discussed the team’s defensive line situation but didn’t express urgency about adding another edge rusher. He praised Hutchinson’s explosiveness and highlighted the solid play of Marcus Davenport and Al-Quadin Muhammad. He also spoke highly of rookie Ahmed Hassanein, even saying he was the most productive edge prospect in his draft class.
This approach has left some fans uneasy. It’s understandable—Detroit supporters have seen plenty of seasons fall apart due to thin depth and unexpected injuries. Holmes might be playing it close to the vest, possibly to maintain leverage in ongoing negotiations. After all, showing desperation in public can drive up asking prices.
Still, for a team with serious postseason ambitions, not pursuing a proven veteran like Smith could be seen as a gamble. He’s shown he can deliver, and he clearly wants to be part of what the Lions are building. Whether Holmes eventually brings him back or goes in another direction remains to be seen—but it’s clear the fanbase is watching closely.
