Za’Darius Smith wasted no time making an impression in his debut with the Detroit Lions. The 32-year-old veteran edge rusher recorded a sack on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Mac Jones during the Lions’ Week 11 matchup on Sunday.
The sack occurred in the fourth quarter, with Detroit comfortably ahead 49-6. Lined up inside, Smith broke through Jacksonville’s offensive line to bring down Jones, showcasing his versatility.
The sack brought Smith’s season total to six, surpassing the 5.5 sacks he recorded in all of last season. His celebration after the play was as memorable as the sack itself, energizing Lions fans.
Smith joined Detroit just before the trade deadline after the Lions lost Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport to season-ending injuries. With a contract extending into 2025, Smith could be a long-term addition if all goes well.
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Smith didn’t play the previous week, as head coach Dan Campbell decided to give him a break since he didn’t get a bye week with the Cleveland Browns, who traded him during theirs.
“Man, I’m very excited,” Smith said about his debut. “I was telling coach I couldn’t wait. I didn’t want the week off, but I appreciate this team because they prioritize their players. Coach Campbell, having been a player, really understands.”
Although Smith initially wanted to play, he later acknowledged the time off helped him check on his home in Florida after the recent hurricane, making the break worthwhile.
Smith has quickly endeared himself to Lions fans, and his impactful sack only strengthened that connection.
